Amid public uproar over the 2025 UTME mass failure, Lagos State University (LASU) has declared its “unwavering support” for JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, rejecting the growing calls for his resignation.
The controversy erupted after the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) admitted that the exam suffered technical errors, which affected the results of 379,997 candidates.
Prof. Oloyede, addressing the nation with visible emotion, issued a heartfelt apology. During the press briefing, he broke down in tears, acknowledging the lapses and pledging a review of the process.
His tears, however, did little to calm critics. Some Nigerians, including activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, insisted that “shedding crocodile tears is not enough” and demanded Oloyede’s resignation for what they saw as a failed process.
In contrast, LASU took a firm stand in defence of the embattled Registrar. In a statement signed by Thomas-Onashile Oluwayemisi, Deputy Registrar and Coordinator, Centre for Information and Public Relations, the institution urged Nigerians to view the incident not as a collapse, but as “an opportunity to strengthen our examination systems further.”
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The university said it “is expressing its unwavering support” for Oloyede, praising his “candid admission of technical failures” and describing his approach as one rooted in rare public service values.
The statement continued: LASU “stands solidly with Prof. Oloyede,” pointing to his “courage,” “humility,” and proven integrity. His swift move to initiate an internal technical audit was described as an act of “exceptional character” and “scarce leadership” in the Nigerian public sector. Since assuming office in 2016, Oloyede has introduced reforms that have cleaned up the exam body, enhanced transparency, and boosted public trust.
The university also credited JAMB’s reform under Oloyede for helping LASU admit “better qualified candidates,” improving academic standards at the institution.
Finally, LASU referenced his legacy at the University of Ilorin, describing him as a consistent advocate for excellence and integrity throughout his career.