Obi warns against costly delays for UTME candidates

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential standard-bearer, Peter Obi, has appealed to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board to quickly resolve mounting registration challenges facing candidates preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

Obi, who visited the Board’s facility in Amawbia, Anambra State, described the situation there as worrying. He said the sheer number of applicants struggling to complete their registration highlighted the urgent need for intervention.

“What I saw today is a matter that requires immediate attention. Young people were waiting in large numbers, uncertain about whether they would complete their registration in time,” he said.

He noted that the disruption appears to have followed JAMB’s decision to suspend several computer-based test centres over alleged breaches of its guidelines. While affirming that discipline within the system is necessary, Obi maintained that corrective measures must not harm candidates.

“No one disputes the need to enforce standards. However, enforcement must be structured in a way that protects innocent students who simply want to sit for their examinations,” he stated.

Obi proposed interim solutions to reduce the pressure on JAMB offices nationwide. According to him, centres facing investigation could be permitted to function under tight regulatory supervision, strictly limited to registration activities.

“If properly monitored, some of these centres can be allowed to operate on a temporary basis. That would ease the congestion we are seeing and prevent needless hardship,” he said.

He further advised that previously accredited centres could be re-engaged on a provisional basis while new approvals are being processed.

“With the closing date drawing closer, many candidates are travelling from distant communities and incurring extra costs just to register. It would be unjust for them to lose this opportunity because of administrative delays,” Obi added.

He urged the examination body to act swiftly, stressing that the nation’s education system must prioritise fairness and access.

“Our young people deserve efficiency and compassion. Their academic future should not be threatened by avoidable organisational shortcomings,” he said.