Delta Court Orders Immediate Admission of All Qualified 2024 UTME Candidates – Major Win for Nigerian Students! 🎓

In a groundbreaking decision, a Delta State High Court in Warri has directed Nigerian universities to admit all candidates who qualified in the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), particularly those turning 16 between September 1 and December 31, 2025. This ruling mandates universities to enroll these students immediately, pending the resolution of an ongoing court case.

Historic Court Order on Admissions for Underage Candidates

Justice A.O. Akpovi presided over the case, identified as Suit No. W/311/FH, which resulted in the court’s directive that all Nigerian universities comply with the order. This decision impacts institutions nationwide, ensuring that qualified young students are not left out of educational opportunities due to age restrictions.

In addition, the court issued an interim restraining order to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), temporarily halting the enforcement of its October 16, 2024 circular. The circular initially restricted admission to candidates who are at least 16 years of age. This order will stand until the originating motion’s final determination.

Background of the Case: Advocates for Student Rights

John O. Aikpokpo-Martins, representing affected students, filed the case against JAMB as the primary respondent and Edwin Clark University as the secondary respondent. During the hearing, Aikpokpo-Martins expressed concerns over non-compliance with court orders, seeking committal for both JAMB and Edwin Clark University officials for previously disregarding the court’s directives.

However, JAMB’s Director of Legal, Dr. Wahab Oyedekun, emphasized their intention to respect the court’s interim orders and agreed to work toward an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) to prevent disruption of academic plans for thousands of students.

JAMB’s Response and Next Steps

Following the court’s directive, JAMB has already issued a new circular to university Vice Chancellors, retracting its initial age restriction guideline. This move acknowledges the court’s directive and aligns with the intention to prioritize students’ educational prospects.

Next Court Session Scheduled

The court granted an application to join Delta State University, Abraka, University of Delta, Agbor, and Admiralty University, Ibusa as additional respondents in the case. The matter is set for a follow-up hearing and ADR report on November 21 and December 4, 2024.

This case reflects a significant moment for education in Nigeria, spotlighting the debate on admission age restrictions. The court’s interim ruling opens doors for young, qualified candidates eager to begin their higher education journey.

💬 Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this pivotal decision! Should age be a determining factor in university admissions? Leave a comment below and let us know!