Brilliant Student Denied University Admission Despite Outstanding Scores
An 18-year-old academic prodigy, Elizabeth Funmilayo Odewusi, finds herself in emotional turmoil after the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) reportedly rejected her admission application for the second consecutive year. Despite achieving an impressive JAMB score of 293 and excelling in her post-university entrance examination, the aspiring nursing student remains excluded from the institution's merit list.
Two Years of Academic Excellence Met With Rejection
Elizabeth's educational journey has been marked by consistent high performance and disappointing outcomes. After being denied admission in 2024 despite scoring over 280 in UTME, she intensified her efforts for the 2025 academic session. Her determination resulted in an even higher JAMB score of 293 combined with a 60% mark in UNILORIN's Post-UTME screening.
Documents reveal her strong academic foundation with outstanding O-level results including distinctions in core science subjects: Biology (B3), Physics (B3), Chemistry (C4), English (C4), Mathematics (C4), and Agricultural Science (B2). Despite this comprehensive academic preparation and even completing the JUPEB program with high scores, admission remains elusive.
Public Outcry and Family Concerns
The repeated rejection has sparked widespread concern among education advocates and family members. Mr. Nurideen Yusuf, a staff member at the Court of Appeal in Ilorin, expressed profound disappointment, stating he felt "deeply heartbroken" by the university's consistent refusal to admit Elizabeth.
"I don't know whether to cry or weep as I am confused and sad about this poor lady who has always been an object of unluckiness," Mr. Yusuf lamented. He warned that continuous disappointment could potentially push the young scholar into depression and cause her to lose interest in education entirely.
A family source described the situation as "discouraging and heartbreaking," emphasizing that Elizabeth's repeated efforts and improved scores should have guaranteed her placement. "This is enough to frustrate a young girl and make her depressed," the source added.
Nigerians Demand Transparency in Admission Process
The case has ignited significant reaction across social media platforms, with many Nigerians questioning the transparency of university admission processes. Commentator Oladimeji Shagaya described the situation as "a painful example of how Nigeria kills young dreams" and urged UNILORIN management to review the matter thoroughly.
Other prospective students have come forward with similar experiences. Joshua Babatunde reported comparable circumstances, stating: "Same as me 284 in JAMB and 52 in Post UTME Mathematics A1, Chemistry B3, Physics A1, Biology B3, English C5. I wasn't transferred, and I don't see admission."
The growing number of such cases has intensified calls for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and UNILORIN to provide clearer explanations about admission criteria and ensure meritorious candidates receive their rightful placements.
