JAMB Boss Tenders Apology Over Official's Misconduct
The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, has formally apologised to the House of Representatives for the inappropriate behaviour displayed by a senior official of the examination body during an investigative hearing.
Oloyede made this apology during his appearance before the House Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies on November 15, 2025, where he submitted documents previously requested by lawmakers. This marked his first direct engagement with the committee since the controversial October incident that sparked outrage among House members.
The Controversial Walkout Incident
The controversy erupted when Mr. Mufutau Bello, a JAMB Director who represented the Registrar at an earlier hearing, staged a walkout from the committee session. The incident occurred after Bello unsuccessfully attempted to force journalists to leave the venue, claiming the documents he brought were sensitive.
The committee overruled his request, emphasizing that its proceedings were public and constitutionally guided. Rather than complying with the committee's directive, Bello ordered his team to leave and abruptly exited the hall, leaving lawmakers stunned by his actions.
Oloyede's Assurance and Submission
Addressing the committee, Prof. Oloyede clearly distanced the Board from the director's conduct, expressing his profound respect for the National Assembly. He highlighted his extensive service to the nation in various capacities, assuring that he would never tolerate any action that undermines parliamentary authority.
"I have enormous respect for the Parliament," Oloyede stated. "I would never do anything, or allow anything under my watch, that undermines its authority."
The Registrar guaranteed that such an incident would not happen again and confirmed that all outstanding documents demanded by lawmakers had been properly submitted.
Committee Chairman's Response
The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Oboku Oforji, strongly condemned the JAMB official's behaviour, describing it as an affront to the Legislature and contrary to the level of cooperation expected from government agencies.
Oforji reminded the Board that Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) empower the National Assembly to conduct investigations and exercise oversight over ministries, departments and agencies.
The ongoing investigation follows a House resolution passed on May 15, 2025, initiated in response to widespread complaints during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The committee is currently reviewing:
- JAMB's budget implementation
- Internally generated revenue from 2023 to date
- Remittances to the Consolidated Revenue Fund
- Details of the Board's bank statements
Oforji emphasized that the inquiry was not a witch-hunt but a constitutional obligation aimed at enhancing transparency and strengthening the conduct of national examinations. He urged JAMB and other agencies to cooperate fully, noting that effective oversight is vital to public accountability.
