The results of 6,458 applicants from the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) are being investigated by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) due to allegations of technology-driven malpractice.
This was announced on Monday in Abuja by JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede during the formation of a 23-member Special Committee on Examination Infraction.
He bemoaned the increasing complexity of exam fraud, pointing out that it had beyond traditional means.
We discovered a lot of odd things this year, so we thought it would be best to increase our resources. Additionally, we think that God has given our country a wealth of resources that we may utilize,” Oloyede stated.
He claims that several recognized Computer-Based Test (CBT) centers and candidates have engaged in identity and biometric fraud, which is one of the cases being investigated.
The newly established panel will concentrate on exceptional violations like image blending, falsifying albinism, finger pairing, and attempts to breach the Local Area Networks of CBT centers, he continued, even though 141 cases of conventional malpractice have already been referred to JAMB’s disciplinary committee.
Oloyede proclaimed, “We must fight examination malpractice with every drop of blood in our veins,” cautioning that unchecked fraud might harm Nigeria’s reputation and compromise the integrity of its educational system.
He described the committee’s responsibilities, which include looking into possible violations, figuring out the technology and procedures employed, assessing current regulations, and suggesting disciplinary measures where needed.
The registrar emphasized the gravity of the assignment by giving the panel a three-week deadline to complete its findings.
Since it is believed that justice postponed is justice denied, we have selected three weeks. The admissions period will end in approximately four weeks. And we think that people who are judged not guilty ought to be given the chance,” he stated.
Chairman of the committee, Dr. Jake Epele, pledged that members will carry out the work with fairness and integrity.
“Examination malpractice is not just a breach of rules. Integrity, merit, and the future of our country’s youth are all directly attacked. Thus, the mission at hand is a sacred one.
“To uphold the integrity of our tests, rebuild public trust, and guarantee that hard work and integrity continue to be the real paths to success,” he stated.
Among others, the group includes officials from Microsoft Africa, civic society, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), security agencies, and university lecturers.
