Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticised the difficulties faced by candidates registering for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
In a statement shared on his X handle Monday, Obi described the situation as a repeat of last year’s challenges, lamenting the hardship students endure at the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) office in Amawbia.
“Last year, concerns were raised about the hardship students faced at various centres across the country, particularly at the Amawbia office of JAMB, following the proscription of several CBT centres over alleged infractions. The expectation was that corrective measures would follow. Sadly, as I passed there again last Friday, I met the same crowd and confusion,” Obi said.
He noted that similar situations exist in other states, stressing that while authorities may have valid reasons for sanctioning Computer-Based Test centres, students should not bear the brunt of systemic shortcomings.
“While authorities may have valid reasons for sanctioning centres, a more balanced and humane approach is possible. Centres under investigation could be allowed to continue offering limited services under strict monitoring. If it is difficult to approve new centres quickly, previously approved centres could still be used temporarily under close supervision to ease the pressure,” he suggested.
With registration set to close on February 26, Obi warned of dire consequences for candidates, especially those from rural areas.
“With registration ending on the 26th, the consequences are serious. Many candidates travel from distant villages, some even sleeping in Awka to secure access. If nothing urgent is done, some will miss the examination, not for lack of preparation, but because the system failed them,” he said.
Obi emphasised that students should not suffer due to administrative lapses, urging authorities to act swiftly.
