31/01/2026
COPIED
I was shocked to learn that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has abolished the extra time allocation for persons with albinism, a decision that affects me personally. In 2012, I, along with our president, Mr. Jake Epelle, and some members, met with JAMB representatives in a hall with about a hundred officials from different states to discuss our case.
During the final briefing before the national exam that year, Mr. Jake presented our general concerns, and I followed with a presentation highlighting the visual challenges faced by persons with albinism, particularly in the JAMB examination. The JAMB officials were impressed with my presentation, and after answering their questions, they approved the extra time allocation. Given this background, I am dismayed by the recent decision, which was made citing abuse by 7,000 candidates who claimed to have albinism. I urge JAMB to investigate these cases and take action against those who cheated, rather than penalizing innocent candidates.
I request that JAMB engage in dialogue with the albinism community and explain the measures they took to prevent abuse. This decision may deny persons with albinism access to quality education and violate their human rights. I appeal to relevant bodies to support our cause, including the United Nations Foundation, Open Society-Africa, Vanguard News, Channels Television, United Nations Human Rights, and the Ministry of Education.