The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education Examination Bodies has demanded an independent investigation into the human errors that marred the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), calling the incident an avoidable failure.
Speaking to journalists at the National Assembly on Tuesday, Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Oforji Oboku, described the disruptions as “unprecedented” and “deeply troubling,” urging for immediate reforms to restore the integrity of Nigeria’s examination system.
“We sincerely apologise to the candidates, their parents, and the Nigerian public,” Oboku said. “This disruption is unprecedented in the history of JAMB and must never happen again.”
Oboku confirmed the committee is currently engaging the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to develop concrete strategies for preventing a recurrence.
One such proposal includes the deployment of independent monitors across the six geopolitical zones to enhance transparency and accountability during future UTME exercises.
While commending JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, for openly acknowledging the board’s lapses and offering a public apology, Oboku emphasized that the errors were entirely preventable and reflected deeper institutional weaknesses.
“The Registrar has shown rare courage by accepting responsibility, but we must be clear—this was a preventable lapse. Our students and the nation deserve better,” he said.
Oboku warned that the education sector could not afford another scandal of this magnitude and stressed the need for urgent reforms.
“The push for accountability cannot be postponed. The integrity of our education system is at stake,” he added.