Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised concerns over what he described as systemic weaknesses in Nigeria computer based testing framework, warning that unresolved challenges could undermine credibility in both education and electoral systems.
Speaking at a public policy forum on education reform, Obi said that while computer based testing CBT has improved examination logistics and reduced certain forms of malpractice, persistent technical failures and infrastructure gaps continue to expose students to unfair disadvantages. He noted that frequent power outages, unstable internet connectivity, and limited digital infrastructure in rural areas create uneven conditions for candidates.
Obi argued that technology driven assessment must be backed by reliable systems to ensure equity and transparency. He stressed that education reforms cannot succeed without sustained investment in digital infrastructure, teacher training, and cybersecurity safeguards. According to him, the credibility of national examinations depends not just on adopting technology but on guaranteeing consistent functionality across all regions.
Education stakeholders have long highlighted recurring complaints during major examinations, including system crashes and biometric verification delays. Critics say such glitches heighten anxiety among students and sometimes force rescheduling, disrupting academic calendars. Obi warned that if similar technological inconsistencies appear in electoral processes, public trust could be severely eroded.
He urged federal and state governments to prioritize funding for school connectivity and to conduct independent audits of CBT platforms. He also called for contingency mechanisms that protect candidates in the event of technical breakdowns.
Policy analysts say Obi intervention reflects broader debates about the intersection of technology and governance in Nigeria. While digitalization is widely seen as a step toward modernization, experts caution that implementation gaps can negate intended benefits.
As Nigeria continues to adopt electronic systems in both education and public administration, stakeholders agree that long term success will depend on infrastructure reliability, oversight mechanisms, and continuous evaluation of digital reforms.
