Anambra, Lagos Lead in Exam Offences

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has handed over 80 candidates to the Nigeria Police for further investigation over their alleged involvement in malpractice during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The data, recently released by the Board, shows that Anambra State recorded the highest number of arrests, with 14 individuals allegedly involved in fraudulent activities. Thirteen were apprehended for impersonation, while one case involved a picture mismatch.

Lagos State came second, with nine suspects detained for offences including impersonation, unauthorized possession of mobile phones, and spying during the exams.

According to JAMB, the arrests are part of ongoing efforts to sanitize the examination process and deter malpractice in the country’s most prominent tertiary entry assessment. The suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue.

JAMB reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on examination malpractice, warning that culprits will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. “We remain committed to protecting the integrity of the UTME. Any attempt to compromise our process will be met with serious consequences,” the Board stated.

This year’s UTME was conducted under tightened security, with the deployment of biometric verification systems and CCTV surveillance across centres to monitor candidates and prevent dishonest practices.

The Board advised prospective candidates to avoid shortcuts and prepare genuinely, stressing that success should be earned through hard work and integrity.