The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has distanced itself from an alleged case of hijab discrimination reported at the Esther Oshikoya CBT Centre.

In a statement issued by its Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin, the Board confirmed that it became aware of the incident through its internal monitoring system during the screening exercise for the first session of the examination on Thursday, April 16.

According to the statement, JAMB immediately intervened by summoning the ad hoc official involved and issuing a directive that no candidate wearing a hijab should be asked to remove or adjust it under any circumstances.

The Board clarified that the action was not carried out by the CBT centre itself nor does it reflect JAMB’s official policy. It attributed the development to “an overzealous ad hoc staff member” who failed to comply with established guidelines governing candidates’ religious attire.

JAMB reiterated its commitment to upholding the rights of all candidates, emphasizing that its screening procedures fully respect religious beliefs and expressions, including modes of dressing.

“The Board categorically affirms that such actions are not in line with its screening procedures,” the statement read, adding that the situation has been promptly addressed.

To prevent a recurrence, JAMB disclosed that all ad hoc staff across examination centres have been re-briefed and reminded of the approved screening protocols.

The Board assured candidates nationwide that their right to religious expression remains protected and integral to its operational standards.