The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has apologized to Muslim female candidates who were reportedly asked to remove their hijabs at the Caleb University CBT Centre in Imota, Lagos, during the ongoing 2025 UTME.
The incident, which occurred on April 24, involved security personnel allegedly compelling candidates to take off their hijabs before being allowed into the exam hall. The action sparked outrage and condemnation from Islamic organisations including MURIC, HRAI, and MSSN, who called for sanctions against those involved and the delisting of the centre.
In a statement, JAMB’s spokesperson, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, condemned the action, describing it as “unauthorised” and the result of “an overzealous security officer.” He noted that the university’s leadership promptly intervened, ensuring no candidate was denied the opportunity to write the exam.
JAMB reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom and promised to take measures to prevent a recurrence.
