JAMB 2025: Candidates Vandalize CBT Centre Computers in Ibadan Over Technical Glitch

The ongoing 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) has faced yet another major disruption as angry candidates reportedly vandalized computers at a Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre in Ibadan, Oyo State, following a serious technical glitch.

According to reports, chaos broke out when the examination at the affected centre was delayed for hours due to system malfunctions.
Frustrated by the lack of communication and poor handling of the situation by the centre management, some candidates lost patience and resorted to damaging computers and other equipment inside the facility.

What Caused the Chaos?

The incident was triggered when:

• Systems failed to load questions properly, causing a long delay.
• No clear explanation was given to candidates about what was happening.
• As hours passed, frustration and anger grew among the stranded candidates.
• Some candidates eventually vented their anger by destroying computers and other examination equipment.

JAMB Yet to Release Official Statement

As of today, JAMB has not yet issued an official response regarding the incident.
However, the event has raised serious concerns about:

• The readiness of CBT centres to handle technical failures.
• The need for contingency plans when glitches occur during high-pressure exams like UTME.
• The importance of proper communication between candidates and exam centre officials during emergencies.

Bigger Questions for JAMB and Centre Operators

This disturbing incident highlights:

• The urgent need for stronger technical infrastructure in all accredited CBT centres.
• The need for clear protocols to manage unexpected technical problems calmly and professionally.
• The necessity for candidates to be trained and encouraged to handle delays peacefully, seeking official help instead of resorting to violence.

While candidates’ frustration is understandable, vandalism is not the right way to address grievances.
Both sides — candidates and exam authorities — must find better, calmer ways to manage exam-day stress and technical setbacks.

Final Words

The vandalism at the Ibadan CBT centre serves as a loud warning about the hidden weaknesses in the UTME process.
As investigations are expected to begin, it is important that lessons are learned and stronger systems are put in place to avoid similar chaos in the future.

Meanwhile, candidates are urged to remain calm and follow proper channels to report any exam challenges, while JAMB and centre managers must do better in preparing for emergencies.