Hijab Removal Controversy Rocks Ibadan UTME Exam Centre

[Mudhab]

Concerns over alleged religious discrimination have emerged in Ibadan as candidates sitting for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) were reportedly forced to remove their hijabs before entering an exam centre.

The incident allegedly occurred on April 16, 2026, at Esther Oshikoya CBT Centre along Sango–Eleyele Road, Arometa. Videos circulating online appear to show a candidate being instructed to remove her hijab before being granted access, sparking widespread reactions across social media.

A user on X, identified as @AlfaShehu01, raised concerns, describing the situation as a violation of candidates' rights. He called for urgent intervention from authorities, the Muslim community, and human rights organizations.

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According to his claims, the centre is officially accredited, yet candidates wearing hijabs were allegedly compelled to remove them before sitting for the exam—an act he described as contrary to constitutional religious freedoms and existing examination guidelines.

The UTME, conducted nationwide by Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, is scheduled to run from April 16 to April 25, 2026, with over 2.2 million candidates participating.

As of now, there has been no official response from the examination body or the centre's management regarding the allegations.

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