JAMB targets exam fraud: 3-year ban, prosecutions ahead
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Special Committee on Examination Infractions (SCEI) has recommended a three-year ban, prosecution of examination cheats and their collaborators, and the cancellation of fraudulently obtained results.
The recommendations aim to restore credibility to Nigeria’s examination and admission system following widespread tech-enabled malpractice in the 2025 UTME.
The SCEI, inaugurated on August 18, 2025, was tasked with investigating and proposing solutions to technology-driven fraud. In its report submitted to JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, on September 8, 2025, the committee outlined measures to combat the menace.
Technological and legal reforms proposed
Chairman of the committee, Dr. Jake Epelle, urged the Federal Ministry of Education to strengthen the Central Sanctions Registry to ensure offenders face lasting consequences. He said the committee recommended a multi-layered framework combining detection, deterrence, and prevention.
The proposed measures include AI-powered biometric anomaly detection, dual verification systems, real-time monitoring, and a National Examination Security Operations Centre.
Legal reforms were also advised, including amendments to the JAMB Act and Examination Malpractice Act to recognise biometric and digital fraud, as well as a more robust Legal Unit within JAMB.
The committee also suggested ethics education in schools, a nationwide Integrity First campaign, and parental accountability enforcement. Under-18 offenders are to be treated under rehabilitative measures outlined in the Child Rights Act. Bulk school-led registrations should also be banned to close loopholes.
Fraud network exposed, cultural shift needed
Dr. Epelle revealed the committee uncovered a large, organised fraud network, documenting 4,251 cases of “finger blending,” 190 cases of AI-assisted image morphing, 1,878 false declarations of albinism, and numerous credential forgeries, multiple NIN registrations, and solicitation schemes.
He stressed that examination fraud is sustained by syndicates involving candidates, CBT centres, schools, parents, and technical accomplices. “Malpractice has become culturally normalised and is seen by many as an acceptable shortcut to success,” he warned.
Epelle emphasised the need for bold reforms, technological innovation, and cultural reorientation to safeguard merit and public trust in Nigeria’s education system.
“This report is not just about exposing fraud; it is about charting a new course for transparency, fairness, and meritocracy in admissions,” he said.
