The story of a young girl who went missing while on her way to write her JAMB examination has captured national attention, sparking concern across the country. The candidate, Esther Oladele, had left her home in the Ajah area of Lagos State, Nigeria, early in the morning, heading to her designated examination center in Epe. However, she never arrived at the center, causing panic among her family and friends.
Before her disappearance, Esther managed to send a disturbing message to her sister, stating that she feared she had boarded the wrong vehicle. She also mentioned feeling unusually drowsy, raising immediate suspicions that she might have been drugged or was in serious danger. This alarming message was the last communication received from her before her phone became unreachable.
Esther’s family quickly reported the matter to the nearest police station at Ajiwe in Ajah. Although the police initiated basic steps by notifying other divisions and promised to broadcast alerts to assist in locating her, they also advised the family to continue their personal search. Feeling the urgency of the situation, Esther’s brother took to social media to amplify the call for help, sharing her photo and the details surrounding her disappearance. His appeal quickly went viral, with Nigerians from all walks of life expressing deep concern and calling for swift action.
The case of the missing JAMB candidate ignited widespread discussions on social media platforms, with many users questioning the safety of students, especially during important national examinations. Parents, education advocates, and concerned citizens voiced their frustration over the dangers young people face simply trying to pursue their academic dreams. Calls were made for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the government to reevaluate the logistics of examination center placements, arguing that students should not be forced to travel long distances to unfamiliar and potentially unsafe locations.
After hours of anxiety and relentless searching, a breakthrough came when Esther was found alive. Although details surrounding how she was located remain unclear, her safe return was a moment of overwhelming relief for her family, friends, and the wider community who had been following the story. She was reportedly reunited with her family, and plans are underway to ensure she receives proper medical care and emotional support after the traumatic experience.
The incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for better security infrastructure, reliable public transportation, and stricter regulations to protect students, especially minors, traveling for examinations. It has also led to growing demands for better coordination between educational bodies and law enforcement agencies during major national exams.
Many Nigerians are now calling for systemic reforms to ensure that no other family has to endure such fear and uncertainty. They urge authorities to create safer environments, not just during examination seasons, but at all times, particularly for vulnerable groups such as students and young travelers.
As Esther recovers from the ordeal, her story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that still lurk in everyday activities and the critical need for vigilance, safety awareness, and swift community action during emergencies.
