The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for candidates who were abducted but later rescued in the state.
The appeal follows the rescue of several passengers who were kidnapped along the Makurdi–Otukpo road while travelling for the examination. Among the victims were individuals believed to be UTME candidates, whose participation in the nationwide exam was disrupted by the incident.
Speaking after receiving the rescued victims, Governor Alia emphasized that the affected candidates should not be denied the opportunity to sit for the examination due to circumstances beyond their control. He urged JAMB to demonstrate flexibility by providing a special arrangement that would allow them to take the test.
According to reports, about 15 passengers were initially abducted during the attack, with security operatives and local efforts leading to their eventual rescue. While some accounts confirm that a number of the victims were en route to write the UTME, there have been conflicting statements from authorities regarding their exact status as registered candidates.
Despite the uncertainty, the Benue State Government maintains that justice and fairness require that any verified candidate among the victims be given another chance to participate in the examination.
The development has sparked public concern over the safety of candidates travelling for national examinations, especially in areas prone to insecurity. It also places pressure on JAMB to clarify its position and determine whether a special resit arrangement will be granted.