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A reported incident involving a female candidate allegedly asked to remove her hijab before sitting for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Ibadan, Oyo State, has sparked widespread reactions on social media.
The claim gained attention after a video circulated online, reportedly recorded at the Esther Oshikoya Computer-Based Test Centre along Sango-Eleyele Road. In the clip, a candidate was seen taking off her hijab before being allowed into the examination venue.
The video was shared by a social media user identified as Alfa Shehu, who alleged that candidates wearing hijabs were being required to remove them before gaining access to the examination hall.
He described the situation as a violation of fundamental rights, arguing that such actions go against constitutional provisions on freedom of religion, as well as existing guidelines by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), which permit the use of hijabs during examinations.
“This is a direct violation of the candidates’ constitutional right to freedom of religion and JAMB’s own guidelines,” he stated.
Despite the growing outrage, the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, and the claims have not been independently verified. As of the time of this report, JAMB had yet to issue an official statement addressing the situation.
Adding to the concern, the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) also weighed in, stating that one of the candidates was initially denied entry into the centre because she was wearing a hijab.
According to the group, the issue was eventually resolved after intervention by relevant authorities. They confirmed that affected candidates were later allowed to sit for the examination without further obstruction.
“The situation at Esther Oshikoya CBT Centre is now under control. Officials from JAMB have arrived at the centre and have taken over the matter,” the MSSN said in a statement.
The development has continued to generate debate online, with many Nigerians calling for clarity and accountability from examination authorities to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Others have urged stakeholders to ensure that candidates are not subjected to conditions that may infringe on their religious freedoms.
The UTME, which commenced nationwide on Thursday, is expected to accommodate over two million candidates across various accredited centres in Nigeria. As the examination progresses, attention remains on how authorities will respond to the concerns raised and whether further action will be taken to address the allegations.
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