The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has launched a probe into 6,458 results from the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) over suspected high-tech cheating involving biometric fraud, identity manipulation, and attempts to hack computer-based test systems.
The board on Monday inaugurated a 23-member committee in Abuja to investigate the cases, which it described as extraordinary infractions beyond conventional malpractice. JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, said examination fraud had evolved into highly technical methods, requiring broader expertise to detect and address.
“This year, we came across a number of strange things and we felt it would be better to expand our resources. Examination malpractice is something that we must fight with every pinch of blood in our veins because unchecked fraud could harm several sectors and tarnish Nigeria’s image,” Oloyede said.
According to him, while 141 cases of traditional malpractice have been referred to JAMB’s disciplinary committee, the new panel will focus on more sophisticated schemes such as image blending, false claims of albinism, finger pairing, and attempts to breach the Local Area Network (LAN) of CBT centres. He explained that many of the infractions were perpetrated in collusion with some accredited test centres.
The committee, chaired by Dr. Jake Epele, has three weeks to complete its assignment. Its mandate includes identifying the technologies and methods used for the infractions, reviewing JAMB’s registration and examination policies, and recommending reforms to protect the integrity of future assessments.
“We believe that those who are found not guilty should have the opportunity to proceed with admission, which is why we set a strict timeline. Justice delayed is justice denied,” Oloyede said.
Responding, Dr. Epele described the assignment as a national duty. “Examination malpractice is not just a breach of rules. It is a direct assault on integrity, merit, and the future of our youth. This is a sacred call to defend the credibility of our examinations and restore public confidence,” he stated.
The committee includes senior academics, technology experts such as Dr. Chuks Okpaka of Microsoft Africa, security specialists, and student representatives. Their work is expected to help JAMB close gaps in the examination system and reinforce confidence in the UTME as the primary gateway into Nigeria’s higher education system.
