The House of Representatives on Wednesday directed the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigerian Immigration to suspend or cancel the Computer Base Test (CBT) used in the ongoing recruitment.
The House directed the two security outfits to conduct another test using the manual process.
The resolution was a sequel to a motion moved by member, Hafiz Kawu.
Kawu argued in his motion that most Nigerians are not computer literate, therefore, the test was discriminatory against some people.
He said that the agencies should instead use the normal handwritten test, instead of the ongoing collaboration with Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Kawu explained that “95 per cent of Nigerians are not computer literate. JAMB did not consider those who are not computer literate. They did not provide an alternative for those who are not computer literate, therefore, not providing a level playing field for all.”
Speaking against the motion, Ibrahim Olanrewaju said that anyone with a Secondary School Certificate which is the minimum qualification should be able to pass the CBT test.
“If the requirement is SSCE, one would expect such a candidate to be able to participate. We should not be looking back. We should be encouraging even mechanics to have basic knowledge of computers.”
Speaking in support of the motion, Abdulrasak Namdas said he has been getting complaints from his constituents on the CBT exams. He added that for the paramilitary, “the emphasis is on physical fitness, not test.”
The House Committees Interior and Federal Character were mandated to monitor the recruitment and report to the House in 6 weeks.
