NASS Explains Why It Has Withdrawn Its Accusation of Financial Mismanagement Against JAMB

The National Assembly (NASS) explained that it has withdrawn its previous accusation of financial impropriety against the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) because of new documentation that clarified the Board's spending practices. The retraction came after a detailed review of financial reports submitted by JAMB, which demonstrated responsible management of resources under the leadership of its Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede. The lawmakers concluded that their earlier claims were unfounded, prompting a public statement to correct the misunderstanding.  

Earlier this week, during a budget defense session with Professor Oloyede, the Joint Finance Committee of the House of Representatives and the Senate raised concerns over alleged excessive expenditures by JAMB. Specifically, they questioned the spending of N1.1 billion on meals and N850 million on fumigation, along with other budgetary items that appeared disproportionate. The committee demanded a comprehensive breakdown of JAMB’s budgetary allocations and expenditures for 2024 and 2025 to substantiate these expenses.  

However, following the submission of detailed financial records, NASS acknowledged that its previous statements were based on incomplete information. In a statement signed by the chairman of the joint committee, Senator Sani Musa, the legislators clarified that a thorough examination of the new documents revealed no evidence of financial mismanagement. The statement emphasized that the line items previously cited did not indicate any reckless spending or improper use of funds. Instead, the records reflected prudent and transparent financial practices.  

The statement, titled “Clarification on the JAMB Report on Revenue,” outlined the committee’s findings and praised the leadership of Professor Oloyede for his stewardship. It highlighted his commitment to fiscal discipline and responsible governance, asserting that his management of JAMB’s resources sets a standard for public institutions across the country. The committee noted that Oloyede’s performance exemplified the kind of accountability needed to restore public confidence in government agencies.  

Professor Oloyede, known for his emphasis on transparency, has previously been lauded for his reforms within JAMB. Since assuming office, he has introduced various measures to curb corruption, streamline processes, and increase revenue generation for the agency. Under his administration, JAMB’s remittances to the federal government have significantly increased, a feat attributed to his zero-tolerance approach to financial mismanagement.  

The incident, while resolved, has raised broader questions about the importance of due diligence in legislative oversight. The Joint Finance Committee’s initial criticism, based on incomplete data, highlights the risks of premature conclusions in matters of public finance. By acknowledging its error and issuing a retraction, NASS demonstrated a willingness to uphold integrity and accountability, core principles in democratic governance.