Outrage as group demands apology from JAMB over denial of kidnapped UTME candidates in Benue

By Johnson Arua

The Campaign for Equal Rights and Opportunities for all Nigerians (CERON) has called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to issue a public apology to Nigerians, affected parents, and UTME candidates abducted in Benue State.

The appeal follows the abduction of 18 passengers, including eight candidates of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), by suspected armed herdsmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo road on April 15, 2026.

The victims were reportedly on their way to Otukpo to sit for the examination when the incident occurred.

Controversy arose after JAMB, while the victims were still in captivity, released a statement denying that any of its candidates were among those kidnapped.

Reacting in a statement, CERON’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Francis Odiir, described JAMB’s response as insensitive and misleading, insisting the board must take responsibility for its claims.

He criticized the examination body for what he called a lack of empathy, noting that its denial worsened the emotional trauma of the victims’ families.

“It was completely wrong and unfair for JAMB to dismiss reports of its candidates being among the abducted victims without proper verification,” Odiir said.

“While families were grappling with fear and uncertainty, JAMB issued a statement that showed no compassion or support. It was shocking that they categorically denied the presence of UTME candidates among the victims.”

Odiir further described the development as a “national embarrassment,” pointing out that the eventual confirmation of eight UTME candidates among those kidnapped contradicted JAMB’s earlier position.

He maintained that the board owes a public apology to the affected families and Nigerians at large, warning that failure to do so should attract sanctions from the Federal Government.

According to him, “JAMB’s handling of the situation added to the distress of the families. Now that the truth has emerged, it is only right for the board to admit its error and apologise publicly.”