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By Tracy Moses
The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies has issued a heartfelt apology to Nigerians following the recent human error that disrupted the conduct of the April/May 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, the Deputy Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Oboku Oforji, who represents Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency in Bayelsa State, described the incident as “avoidable” and conveyed empathy to the affected candidates and their families.
“This is an unprecedented situation in JAMB’s history. The committee deeply regrets the distress this has caused and offers an unreserved apology on behalf of the Board to the Nigerian public,” Hon. Oforji stated.
He acknowledged JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, for promptly taking responsibility and issuing an apology but emphasized that the committee will ensure accountability is upheld.
“This isn’t something we can gloss over. The integrity of our education system, which forms the bedrock of our national development, is at stake,” he warned.
Addressing questions from reporters, Hon. Oforji admitted that lapses in regulatory oversight might have contributed to the error but assured that preliminary findings are underway, with plans to push for sweeping reforms across all geopolitical zones to bolster exam supervision.
“We are not making excuses for JAMB. Early indications point to human error, not a system failure. The committee is determined to trace those accountable and ensure consequences follow,” he added.
In response to calls by some lawmakers for a total cancellation of the UTME results, the Deputy Chairman said such a decision would hinge on the outcome of the committee’s investigation. He noted, however, that JAMB had responded swiftly by arranging a retake for those affected.
“JAMB’s quick decision to conduct a retake shows this wasn’t an intentional act. Nigerians can be assured we are digging deep into the matter,” he said.
On whether the public should simply move on, Hon. Oforji stressed, “We’re not asking anyone to forget. We’re asking for understanding as we work to ensure this never happens again.”
He reaffirmed the committee’s resolve to uphold transparency and pledged that full findings will be shared with the public once the investigation concludes.
“This is a painful episode. We wouldn’t wish it on anyone. We appreciate Nigerians’ patience and assure them that lessons will be learned,” he said.