LASU Declares Support for JAMB Registrar Amid UTME Technical Failures and Public Outrage

Amid mounting pressure for the resignation of Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), following technical issues that marred the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), Lagos State University (LASU) has publicly declared its unwavering support for the embattled official.

The statement of solidarity was issued by Thomas-Onashile Oluwayemisi, LASU’s Deputy Registrar and Coordinator of the Centre for Information and Public Relations, urging the public to see the situation as an opportunity for systemic improvement, not failure.

“Lagos State University stands solidly with Prof. Oloyede, affirming not only his courage and humility in this testing time but also the depth of character and integrity that has become the hallmarks of his glittering career as a public servant,” the statement read.

The Controversy: UTME Failures and Technical Glitches

The 2025 UTME sparked national outrage after JAMB confirmed that at least 379,997 candidates were affected by technical disruptions, leading to abnormally low or zero scores.

At a press briefing, Prof. Oloyede became emotional and apologized publicly, acknowledging the board’s failure in system performance.

Despite the apology, criticism intensified, with activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore demanding Oloyede’s immediate resignation, stating that:

“Shedding crocodile tears is not enough. He must step down for someone more competent.”

LASU: “This Is Not a Failure, But a Call for Strengthened Systems”

In contrast to public condemnation, LASU’s statement emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, praising Oloyede’s candid admission and willingness to initiate a technical audit of JAMB systems.

“His decision to subject the process to an internal technical review and admit shortcomings reflects his exceptional character and demonstrates a kind of leadership that is scarce in the Nigerian public space.”

JAMB Reforms and Institutional Impact

LASU also highlighted how Oloyede’s leadership since 2016 has brought sweeping reforms to JAMB, significantly enhancing exam integrity, transparency, and efficiency.

“Lagos State University has benefitted immensely from the enhanced processes of JAMB, leading to the admission of better qualified candidates in our University,” the institution said.

The university also noted Oloyede’s track record, especially during his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, as evidence of his lifelong commitment to academic excellence and ethical leadership.