Engineer Muftau Open Salawu, FNSE, Babalaje of Ogbomoso land and Waziri Jari of Nupe Kingdom, has sounded the alarm on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board’s (JAMB) struggles with exam malpractice, attributing the issue to broader societal problems.
In a statement titled “The Tears of JAMB,” on Thursday, Open Salawu lamented that parental involvement in exam malpractice and the glorification of internet fraudsters are major contributors to the board’s challenges.
“We condemn traditional thieves, but ironically, internet fraudsters are glorified,” he noted, adding that “it’s disturbing to hear that some parents even support and organize around these activities.”
Open Salawu emphasized that the emphasis on scoring and competitiveness in Nigeria’s education system, starting from kindergarten, has created a culture of seeking unfair advantages.
“We complicate simple processes and cry foul when we face the repercussions,” he observed.
While praising JAMB’s efforts to tackle malpractice, he expressed concern about the board’s shift towards profit-making.
He also suggested that if the leadership of JAMB succeeds in addressing the issue of malpractice, he should consider stepping aside to preserve his integrity. “If the JAMB Prof succeeds in tackling malpractice, he should consider stepping aside to preserve his integrity,” Salawu advised.
He called for a re-evaluation of Nigeria’s education system and societal values, stressing that improving the country is a shared responsibility that requires collective effort.
“Improving Nigeria is a shared responsibility, not just a task for leaders,” he emphasized.
