A budget hearing at the House of Representatives turned tense after officials of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) walked out during questioning by the House Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies.
The Committee, led by Oboku Oforji, had invited JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede to defend the agency’s 2023–2024 budget performance and revenue remittances. Despite receiving three formal invitations dated October 6, 17, and 23, 2025, Oloyede failed to appear, sending Director Mufutau Bello in his place.
The session became heated when Bello asked accredited journalists to leave, claiming the financial documents contained “sensitive information.” Lawmakers rejected the request, insisting the hearing was public. Bello then led the JAMB delegation out of the meeting, prompting outrage from the Committee.
Chairman Oforji described the walkout as “unacceptable and disrespectful,” warning that it undermined the legislature’s oversight powers. The Committee subsequently summoned Oloyede to appear in person on November 4, 2025, with all relevant financial documents, citing potential sanctions under Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution for noncompliance.
Lawmakers condemned JAMB’s actions as a display of impunity. Rep. Abiante said the walkout reflected “a disregard for accountability,” while Rep. Rodney Ambaiowei criticised the attempt to bar the press, stressing that “transparency is not optional.” Rivers lawmaker Marie Ebikake also demanded the Registrar’s personal appearance to clarify JAMB’s financial management.
The Committee adjourned the session, warning that any further defiance by JAMB would attract strict parliamentary action.
