JAMB Sanction Officials over Hijab Controversy During UTME

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has taken disciplinary action against accredited officials involved in preventing a hijab-wearing female candidate from entering the UTME exam hall with her headcover. JAMB clarified its stance, stating that there is no policy prohibiting candidates from wearing religious items. The incident was promptly resolved, with the candidate allowed to sit for the exam wearing her hijab.

AMB disclosed that some accredited officials have been penalized for their actions in preventing a hijab-wearing candidate from entering the UTME exam hall.

In a statement by JAMB's Public Communication Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the exam body disavowed any policy prohibiting candidates from wearing religious items.

The incident, initially reported as 'Re: Lagos Centre Stops Hijab-Wearing Candidates as UTME Commences,' was quickly resolved, with the candidate permitted to sit for the exam while wearing her hijab.

JAMB emphasized that the actions of the officials were based on ignorance, which is unacceptable, as ignorance of the law has no pardon.A

pproximately 1.2 million candidates were expected to have taken the 2024 UTME by Monday, April 22. The statement reiterated that JAMB has no policy restricting candidates from wearing religious paraphernalia, recognizing the diverse religious landscape of Nigeria.

JAMB's swift response to the incident involving the hijab-wearing candidate reaffirms its commitment to upholding candidates' rights and ensuring a fair and inclusive examination process. The disciplinary action taken against the officials sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. As the UTME continues, JAMB remains vigilant in safeguarding the rights of all candidates.

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