Police Deploy Security for UTME in Oyo, Osun, Lagos, Ogun as Kogi Youths Cite Concerns
Police commands across multiple states in Nigeria have announced extensive security deployments to ensure the safety of candidates participating in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This move comes as youths in Kogi State voice serious concerns about insecurity and inadequate facilities that could hinder their participation in the crucial examination.
Kogi Youths Appeal to Governor Ododo Over UTME Challenges
Youths from Kogi East Senatorial District have urgently appealed to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to address pressing issues affecting UTME candidates in the state. Speaking to The Guardian in Lokoja, the youths highlighted problems including widespread insecurity, poor Internet connectivity, and a lack of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres in certain areas. They emphasized that what should be a straightforward step toward academic advancement has become a significant burden for many young people and their families, potentially jeopardizing their educational futures.
Comprehensive Police Security Measures Announced
In response to the nationwide examination, police authorities have mobilized resources to protect candidates and examination centres. The Oyo State Police Command has ordered the deployment of comprehensive security measures across the state. Police Public Relations Officer Ayanlade Olayinka stated that officers on stop-and-search duties have been instructed to act proactively, professionally, and courteously to maintain order and safety.
Similarly, police in Osun and Lagos states have deployed officers to all CBT centres to ensure adequate security for examinees. In Ogun State, the police command has deployed personnel and operational assets across 72 accredited CBT centres. Police Public Relations Officer Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed this deployment in a statement issued in Abeokuta, underscoring the commitment to a secure examination environment.
Hijab Controversy Erupts and is Resolved in Ibadan
Tensions flared at the Esther Oshikoya CBT Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State, following reports that female candidates wearing hijabs were being denied entry or forced to remove them before sitting for the UTME. The incident was highlighted in a social media post by Shehu Abdul-Salam Alododo, who described it as an "urgent emergency broadcast" regarding the denial of rights to hijab-wearing candidates.
However, the situation was brought under control after intervention by officials from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). The swift action helped to de-escalate the conflict and ensure that candidates could proceed with their examinations without further disruption.
MPAC Calls for Sanctions Over Alleged Discrimination
The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) Nigeria has called for sanctions against the management of the Esther Oshikoya CBT Centre in Ibadan over the alleged discrimination against Muslim female candidates. In a statement signed by Executive Chairman Disu Kamor, the organization condemned what it described as harassment, humiliation, and religious discrimination against candidates wearing hijabs.
MPAC argued that no candidate should be denied access to an examination due to their religious identity, noting that the incident caused significant distress to young individuals at a critical juncture in their academic pursuits. The group's demand for accountability highlights ongoing concerns about religious inclusivity in educational settings.
As the UTME continues, the combined efforts of law enforcement and educational authorities aim to address both security and logistical challenges, ensuring a fair and safe examination process for all candidates across Nigeria.
