JAMB records minimal challenges in UTME, warns against exam fraud

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has declared the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) largely successful, with Registrar Ishaq Oloyede reporting only minimal challenges across the nation's nearly 1,000 centers. Speaking from Ibadan, Oloyede highlighted that issues, primarily concerning power supply and minor technical glitches, were confined to a small fraction of the examination venues, affecting only about 16 out of 980 centers.

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Like any human activity, there will be challenges, but they have been minimal.

Despite initial concerns, JAMB has managed to conduct examinations for over 1.7 million candidates within a tight three-day window. Oloyede lauded the smooth execution of the process, attributing its success to the effective collaboration among various stakeholders, including vice-chancellors and rectors serving as proctors. He also addressed reports of kidnappings, cautioning against unverified claims that link such incidents directly to JAMB, emphasizing that the focus should remain on the safe return of victims.

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Out of about 980 centres nationwide, we have recorded issues in only about 16 centres.

The registrar also took the opportunity to dispel common misconceptions about the UTME's role in admissions, clarifying that it is just one component alongside O-Level requirements. He issued a stern warning against fraudsters offering "exam runs" or score manipulation, revealing that JAMB is intensifying efforts to track and prosecute such individuals, with several already facing legal action. The board is committed to upholding the integrity of the examination process and ensuring credible admissions into tertiary institutions.

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It is unfortunate that people were kidnapped, but linking them directly to JAMB without evidence complicates security efforts.