Peter Obi has criticised the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for its decision to allegedly blacklist 17 computer-based test (CBT) centres in Anambra State, a move that he claims is creating significant challenges for students.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement on Friday, the former governor of Anambra stressed a concerning situation observed at the JAMB office in Amawbia, where a large number of students were seen waiting on fences.
According to Obi, the students reported that they had gathered to change their courses or institutions, as many CBT centres in the state had ceased to offer this service.
“Further investigation revealed that out of 28 JAMB-approved centres in Anambra State, 17 have been blacklisted,” the statement read.
“Sadly, many of the affected centres were not even informed of the specific reasons behind this action.”
Obi stated that the blacklisting has forced students to travel long distances and make multiple trips to the state office.
He also highlighted a sharp increase in costs, noting that a service that should cost around N1,500 now costs up to N15,000 at the JAMB office, “often padded by unofficial fees.”
Obi said the situation is putting the academic futures of the students at risk, as many are unable to make necessary changes before post-UTME screenings begin.
He urged JAMB to adopt a “more humane and transparent approach,” suggesting that the blacklisted centres could continue operating under close monitoring while investigations are underway.
“Education remains the hope of our nation. We must not allow bureaucratic bottlenecks and opacity to derail the dreams of our young people,” Obi said.
The former Anambra governor appealed to JAMB to prioritise the welfare of the students.
