By Deborah Nnamdi
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has inaugurated a 23-member Special Committee on Examination Infractions to investigate cases of technology-driven malpractice uncovered during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
Speaking at the inauguration on Monday in Abuja, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, expressed concern over the increasing sophistication of exam fraud. He revealed that the results of 6,458 candidates are currently being withheld pending an investigation into alleged high-tech cheating. “This year, we encountered several strange incidents and felt the need to expand our investigative capacity. We believe this country has the talent and expertise required to tackle these issues,” he said.
According to Oloyede, malpractice has evolved beyond traditional methods into technologically advanced forms, including biometric manipulation and identity fraud—some of which were perpetrated in collusion with accredited Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres. He emphasized the urgency of protecting the integrity of national examinations, stating, “Examination malpractice is something we must fight with every drop of blood in our veins.” He warned that failure to act decisively could damage multiple sectors and tarnish Nigeria’s image globally.
While 141 cases of conventional malpractice have been referred to JAMB’s disciplinary committee, the newly formed committee will handle more complex violations, such as image blending, falsified albinism claims, finger pairing, and attempts to breach CBT centres’ local networks. Oloyede outlined the committee’s mandate, which includes investigating all such infractions; identifying the tools, patterns, and technologies involved; reviewing and recommending improvements to registration and examination policies; determining the culpability of the 6,458 candidates under investigation (excluding those in the albinism group); recommending appropriate sanctions; and proposing proactive measures to prevent future occurrences. The committee is also expected to address any related issues and submit its report within three weeks.
“We set a three-week deadline because justice delayed is justice denied,” Oloyede said. “Admissions will close in about four weeks, and those found innocent deserve the opportunity to proceed.”
Responding on behalf of the committee, Chairman Dr. Jake Epele commended Oloyede’s leadership and pledged the committee’s commitment to the task. “Examination malpractice is not just a breach of rules; it is an attack on merit, integrity, and the future of our youth,” Epele said. “This is not just a committee assignment. It is a calling—to restore public confidence and ensure that honesty remains the path to opportunity. I will lead this team with fairness, transparency, and determination.”
Committee members include Prof. Muhammad Bello, Prof. Samuel Odewummi, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, Prof. Ibe Ifeakandu, retired Police Commissioner Fatai Owoseni, Dr. Chuks Okpaka of Microsoft Africa, and the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students. Also represented are the Office of the National Security Adviser, Department of State Services, Nigeria Police Force, and the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, among others.
