SHOCKING INJUSTICE: How Brilliant 298-Score JAMB Candidate Was Denied Nursing Admission at UNN

In a country where young people fight against all odds to excel academically, the story of Chinwuba Nancy has sparked outrage and deepened long-standing concerns about fairness in Nigeria’s admission processes. Nancy, a young girl whose academic credentials read like a dream—an impressive JAMB score of 298 and an outstanding 8 As and 1 B in her WAEC—has reportedly been denied admission into the highly competitive Nursing Department of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). What should have been a moment of joy and celebration for her family has instead become a disturbing reminder of what many describe as entrenched racketeering and manipulation within certain academic departments across the country.

Nancy’s case is not an isolated incident, but it stands out sharply because her results meet and exceed the typical expectations for admission into a prestigious programme like Nursing, which remains one of the most sought-after courses in Nigerian universities. Parents, teachers, and concerned citizens have taken to social media to express anger and disappointment, describing the situation as nothing short of injustice against a child who has done everything right. With a JAMB score far above the national cut-off and near-perfect WAEC grades, many believe there is no academic justification for denying her admission.

What has fueled the rising tension even further is the growing allegation of admission racketeering within the Nursing Department at UNN. Several voices online and within academic circles have continued to point fingers at systemic exploitation, claiming that slots often go to the highest bidders or influential families rather than deserving candidates. According to individuals familiar with the process, departments like Nursing, Medicine, and Law are frequently plagued by irregularities, leaving brilliant students stranded despite having stellar results. For many, Nancy’s experience proves that the system is deeply flawed and increasingly hostile to merit.

Observers argue that for years, parents have lamented the hidden costs and unofficial negotiations that determine who gets admitted into certain departments. Although the university has often denied such allegations, stories like Nancy’s paint a troubling picture—one that suggests talent and hard work alone may not be enough anymore. The idea that a child who scored 298 in JAMB, a score high enough to compete with the best in the country, could still be overlooked is a bitter pill for many Nigerians to swallow. Critics insist that such practices not only discourage hardworking students but also lower the credibility and integrity of Nigerian universities.

Those defending Nancy are calling for a thorough investigation into the matter, arguing that a transparent admission review would likely reveal the truth. Many insist that the public deserves to know how candidates with weaker results secured admission while a top-performing student was pushed aside. Concerned stakeholders, especially in the education sector, are demanding accountability and reforms that prioritize merit over monetary influence or personal connections. They argue that if the system continues like this, the country risks losing its brightest minds to frustration, lack of opportunities, and eventual migration to places where talent is valued.

Nancy’s case has especially touched many because she represents millions of Nigerian youths who believe that education remains a pathway to a better future. Her academic journey, marked by discipline, consistency, and excellence, embodies the hope that if a child works hard enough, opportunities will naturally open. To see her blocked at the finish line has forced many to question whether Nigeria still rewards brilliance or whether the future is being auctioned to the highest bidder. It is a painful reality that many parents say they have experienced firsthand—watching their children excel in national exams only to be denied admission due to reasons that have nothing to do with merit.

As the story continues to circulate, many are urging the university authorities to revisit the admission list and make corrections where necessary. Advocacy groups, especially those focused on education and youth development, have also begun demanding explanations from UNN, insisting that silence is no longer acceptable. They believe institutions must protect their integrity by ensuring that deserving students are not sidelined. Some have even called on the Ministry of Education and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to intervene and audit departments where allegations of racketeering are rampant.

For now, Nancy’s family is heartbroken, struggling to understand how a child who performed exceptionally well could still be denied her preferred course. Their frustration mirrors that of countless Nigerian families who pour time, energy, and resources into giving their children the best possible chance, only to have the system fail them. Her story ignites a deeper conversation about the future of young Nigerians and the emotional burden that comes with navigating a system many believe is hostile to transparency.

The outrage surrounding her case goes beyond her personal experience. It speaks to a broader crisis—one that frustrates ambition and crushes the confidence of students who dream of a better tomorrow. At a time when the country desperately needs skilled healthcare professionals, turning away a brilliant, driven student from the Nursing Department makes little sense. Rather than encouraging excellence, this situation risks pushing the nation backward by discouraging the very people who could contribute meaningfully to its development.

As pressure mounts, many hope her story will not end as just another viral moment. They hope it will be a catalyst—one that forces educational institutions to confront the uncomfortable truth about corrupt practices that hinder fairness. They hope it compels policymakers to strengthen oversight, enforce transparency, and punish those responsible for manipulating admissions. But most importantly, they hope justice will prevail for Nancy, whose only desire was to pursue her passion and serve humanity through Nursing.

Until the university addresses the concerns being raised, the public will continue to demand answers. And as Nancy’s story spreads, it serves as a stark reminder that Nigeria’s education system must be fixed—urgently. The future of hardworking students depends on it, and their dreams should never be sacrificed on the altar of corruption, favoritism, or racketeering.