Lagos State University (LASU) has declared its “unwavering support” for the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, amid widespread calls for his resignation following the mass failure recorded in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The calls for Oloyede’s resignation grew louder after JAMB admitted to technical errors that affected the results of at least 379,997 candidates. The acknowledgment came after public outrage, prompting Oloyede to issue an emotional apology during a press briefing where he broke down in tears.
Among those demanding his resignation is former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, who argued that “shedding crocodile tears is not enough” and called for a more competent hand to lead the examination body.
In response, LASU, through a statement signed by its Deputy Registrar and Coordinator, Centre for Information and Public Relations, Thomas-Onashile Oluwayemisi, urged Nigerians to view the incident not as a failure but as “an opportunity to strengthen our examination systems further.”
The university praised Oloyede for his “candid admission of technical failures,” describing it as a testament to his integrity.
“Lagos State University stands solidly with Prof. Oloyede, affirming not only his courage and humility in this testing time but also the depth of character and integrity that has become the hallmark of his glittering career as a public servant,” the statement read.
LASU highlighted Oloyede’s willingness to initiate an internal technical review as a demonstration of exceptional leadership. The university also commended his transformative work since taking office in 2016, noting that his reforms have significantly improved examination credibility and transparency, boosting public confidence in JAMB.
The institution added that it has “benefitted immensely” from the enhanced processes introduced under Oloyede’s leadership, resulting in the admission of more qualified candidates.
LASU also pointed to Oloyede’s longstanding commitment to excellence and integrity, dating back to his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin.
