CURBING GRADING BIAS IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS

~By Okunlegbe John T

Indices have shown in recent years,how the credibility of examinations in Nigeria’s higher institutions has come under increasing scrutiny and doubts. To a great extent, the skepticism is as a result of allegations of grading bias, and manipulations by lecturers.

Before now, all eyebrows seemed to be against students. They are perceived to be the only culprits in examination malfeasances, seeing they assume a role of the subordinates,and are mostly involved in cheating during exams,buying grades and other related malpractices.

However, as technology advances, particularly with the invention of computer-based tests (CBT) that allow for studends, to write examination online and have their results uploaded via the same means, it is increasingly becoming necessary, to shift the searchlight against examination malpractices to the lecturers.
I speak today as a lecturers, who was once a student, but victimized through grading bias.

Years ago, I had reasons to join a host of others, to register our grievances about how our department handled the collation of our final result— the collations were taking longer than necessary, and many of my course mates were eager to go for NYSC deployment.
Long story made short, some of us who made that journey to school were victimized. Our grades were reduced, and as such we have continued to live with this trauma.

It is important I tell you that, there is an opportunity to ‘call for one’s papers’ in most Nigerian universities, however, such avenues are nothing but means for further frustration and victimisation of students. If anyone has ever scaled such rigour, then, the percentage of those who have come out triumphant must be very infinitesimal.

In most of the cases, students who register disatisfactions about their results or grades are humiliated and marked down during the remarking process.

Because of naivity that comes with adolescence, most students who have such issues prefer to be quite about it. They are spiraled into silence, knowing doing otherwise could spell doom.

It is not out of place, to say most of the lecturers in our tertiary institution have assumed the position of the biblical principalities and powers. Many wield so much powers that, they can do and undo just anything, especially as it concerns students’ academic performances.

It is unfortunate that,an issue as mundane and irrelevant to academics as sex, is used against some unwilling students— a lecturer wants to take an undue advantage of a female student, before such student passes her course at all, or with good grade. What a sacrilege!

To address these challenges and enhance transparency and fairness,there is need for shifting from traditional pen-on-paper examinations to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) across Nigerian universities and colleges:

Curtailing lecturers’ manipulations, is paramount in the quest for academic transparency and integrity in Nigeria. The world had since moved from where most of our institutions now dwell. The days of submitting your examination scripts to a drug or alcohol-influnced lecturer are over. We must embrace the ease, speed and accuracy that technology accords.

With manual grading, the risk of biased marking, grade alterations, and even solicitation of favors (monetary or otherwise) is significantly higher. CBTs remove this vulnerability by automating the marking process for objective questions, reducing human interference, and ensuring that results are based purely on student performance.
The detection of the hitches in 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) organized recently by Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is a testament to the fact that, our old grading patterns are indeed archaic and suppressive. Aside the technical glitches, which are easily detectable and amendable, JAMB deploying CBT method remains the best.

Furthermore,for our institutions to score high in objectivity and fairness, candidates must be scored based on definitive algorithms, leaving little to no room for subjectivity– this can only be made possible by CBT. Here,all students are assessed under the same conditions, and the same grading standards are uniformly applied. This gives equal opportunity, or a level playing field, where students’ efforts are the sole determinants of their grades, thereby restoring faith in the integrity of academic assessments.

While computers may not necessarily be able to take over all human activities, we must accept the fact that,they enhance productivity and the management of time. No matter how smart and proficient a lecturer could be, the sight of over a hundred booklets of students during examination sends a wave across his/her spine. It is certain s/he wouldn’t be able to mark all scripts with the same zest, objectivity and speed.

Traditional examinations require a long marking period, during which scripts are often lost, misgraded, or intentionally manipulated. In contrast, CBTs offer instant or much faster results, giving no room for tampering after submission. This rapid turnaround not only benefits students but also reduces the administrative workload on academic departments.

Nigerian institutions must embrace a paradigm shift, if they hope to remain competitive and prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce
Moving fully to CBT is not without its challenges. Infrastructure deficits, erratic power supply, and digital divide are real issues in many Nigerian institutions. However, these challenges are surmountable. Government investment, public-private partnerships, and phased implementation can bridge the gap.

Moreso, while objective questions are easier to grade via CBT, strategies must be developed to accommodate essay-type assessments and practicals. Hybrid models that incorporate both automated testing and supervised evaluations could serve as a balanced approach during the transition phase.

Let me close by emphasising that, transitioning from pen-on-paper examinations to CBT in Nigerian higher institutions, is not just a technological upgrade — it’s a fundamental reform to restore integrity,fairness and transparency in the academic system. It is an easy avenue for the elimination of opportunities for lecturers’ manipulations.

CBT stands as a crucial tool in transforming Nigeria’s education sector into one that truly rewards merit and prepares students for a digital future.

What stops institutions, including JAMB from conducting CBTs where students’ results are displayed immediately the SUBMIT button is clicked?

Okunlegbe John is a lecturer and a pastor. He writes from Ilorin.

Rural Communities Cry Out Over Overbilling, Inconsistent Practices in Healthcare

By Ifeoma Ikem

Residents of Ijede community in Ikorodu, Lagos State, have raised alarm over the non-accessible, unaffordable, and inconsistent practices of the Oke-Eletu Health Centre. The healthcare facility has been accused of overbilling patients, making it difficult for them to afford essential healthcare services.

A resident, Alhaji Bello Okeifa, expressed his frustration, questioning who is behind this “evil act” that is denying residents access to affordable healthcare.

The 60-year-old lamented that the high cost of drugs at the health centre’s drug bank is forcing people to resort to traditional herbs for treatment.

“We are our own enemies. Else how can a health centre – subsidised by government – castrate it’s poor patients, slamming undue and costly bills on them for services? It’s unprofessional. And there is no hospital nearby to go to.”

Another resident, Mrs. Johnson Lawal, attributed the problem to economic factors, stating that poverty rates are higher in rural communities, making it difficult for residents to afford healthcare services, medications and transportation costs.

She noted that out-of-pocket expenses often deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention, exacerbating health problems and perpetuating a cycle of poverty.

Iya Seyi, a herbalist, echoed similar sentiments, saying such action by the medical profession and government did not bode well for the community. She urged the government to make healthcare services affordable, rather than adding to the health challenges faced by the community.

In response to the complaints, Hon. Motunrayo Alogba, the LCDA chairman, assured the community that her administration is committed to upholding the integrity of the healthcare system and will not tolerate any form of exploitation.
She stated that an internal review has commenced to address the grievances and ensure accountability, fairness, and transparency in service delivery.

The Ijede youth coordinator, Musediq Olumide, commended the council boss for her quick response, saying it reflects her leadership quality and commitment to serving the community.

He urged for a thorough investigation and enforceable sanctions for anyone found culpable of overbilling and inconsistent practices.

The issue highlights the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing affordable healthcare services, and the need for accountability and transparency in healthcare delivery.

Happy Anniversary In Office, Time for Truth and Action: A Call to PDP Faithfuls Worldwide

Greetings to all my dear party faithfuls and committed members across Nigeria and beyond this message is not for the pretenders and sell-outs still parading themselves as loyal PDP members while aligning themselves with the APC in disguise.

There is no longer any room for pretense. The reality is glaring: many of our so-called leaders have betrayed the trust and loyalty of the party’s grassroots. They have sold their conscience to the ruling APC while still operating under our banner a dangerous hypocrisy that has cost us dearly.

Let us ask ourselves a sincere and sobering question: How much longer will we remain in opposition while Nigerians suffer under the weight of APC’s failed leadership? Every day, citizens face untold hardship, economic instability, insecurity, and hopelessness all results of an inept government that rose to power through deception, tribal and religious sentiment and continues to hold on through manipulation and propaganda.

As loyal PDP members not just followers, but stakeholders we must demand transparency, strategy, and seriousness from our leadership. We cannot afford to be blind loyalists while the APC continues to toy with the future of this nation and with our party’s integrity.

A Crisis of Leadership

Do we truly believe that the current crop of leaders at the helm of our great party are serious about returning PDP to power in 2027?

Can we in good conscience say that with individuals like Wike, Anyawu, Samuel Ortom men many see as compromised sitting as a member of the Board of Trustees, we are positioning ourselves for a comeback in 2027?

What were the concrete outcomes of our last strategic meeting? What plans are in motion? Or are we still dwelling in the illusion that mere presence at rallies or issuing hollow statements will win us the next election?

The truth is: we are at a crossroads.

The PDP must awaken from slumber. We must cleanse our ranks and rekindle the fire of true opposition. The time to organize, strategize, and mobilize is now. Our leaders must show that they are not only ready to lead but are also connected to the pains and aspirations of ordinary Nigerians.

The Way Forward:

1. Accountability: PDP members must begin to hold leaders accountable. Those found to be hobnobbing with the APC should be shown the way out. We cannot fight our enemies with compromised generals.

2. Grassroots Engagement: The strength of PDP has always been in its base and despite the leadership challenges PDP has the sympathy and Goodwill of Electorates. Therefore, we must return to the people with sincerity, listening ears, and practical solutions not rhetorics as people are tired of APC rule.

3. Reform the Leadership Structure: It’s time for a leadership overhaul infuse new blood and flush out the anti party element holding the party to ransom after the party build them, inject more younger voices, and credible patriots into positions of influence.

4. Clear Roadmap for 2027: We demand a transparent plan not just political rhetoric. Where is the strategy? Who are our proposed candidates? What is our message? The time for vague declarations is over.

In Celebration of Genuine Leadership

As we reflect on the challenges, we also celebrate the achievements of true PDP leaders who have stood by the people and have made visible progress. On this note, we extend heartfelt congratulations to our leader and father, His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed, on his six-year anniversary in office. Your unwavering dedication to development, good governance, and the welfare of your people remains a beacon of hope for what PDP can represent when we lead with purpose and integrity.

To all PDP Governors marking their anniversaries in office, we celebrate your achievements and urge you to continue to be shining examples of leadership that serves.

The time has come to rise. PDP must return to its roots, reclaim its purpose, and reawaken its fighting spirit. Let us not forget: our loyalty is to the people, to justice, and to the future of Nigeria not to compromised power-brokers.

Let us speak the truth, demand action, and prepare to return to power with a renewed vision and a clean house.

PDP! Power to the People!

Daure David,
Red Cap Movement Of Nigeria
29/05/2025

#Boris
#PDP