Police dismiss rumours of threats to UTME centres, deploy team nationwide

In a proactive move to safeguard the future of Nigeria's youth, the Nigeria Police Force has deployed extensive security measures across all examination centers nationwide for the upcoming 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This deployment comes as the police have moved to decisively debunk rumors circulating about potential threats to candidates' safety, labeling such claims as baseless.

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The Nigeria Police Force wishes to categorically state that these claims are without basis.

Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, issued a statement clarifying the police's stance. While acknowledging public concerns, he categorically stated that the rumors of threats in a North Central state, and by extension elsewhere, are unfounded. The NPF emphasized its commitment to the safety, education, and future of the nation's children, assuring the public that proactive measures are in place to ensure a secure examination environment.

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While the NPF does not act on rumours, the concerns raised by members of the public have been duly noted as it concerns the safety, education and future of our children and wards.

Extra security personnel will be present at examination centers, both visibly and covertly, to prevent any untoward incidents. This includes routine patrols, perimeter checks, and strategically stationed rapid response teams. The police are also working hand-in-hand with other security agencies to maintain a vigilant watch and respond effectively to any potential threats. Any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process will face swift apprehension and legal action.

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To this end, extra security has been deployed at examination centres nationwide, both overtly and covertly, to prevent any untoward incidents.

The police have reassured candidates, parents, and the general public of their commitment to providing adequate protection throughout the examination period, which is scheduled from April 16 to April 25, 2026. Candidates are encouraged to arrive early, adhere strictly to examination regulations, and promptly report any suspicious activities to the on-site security personnel. Furthermore, the public is urged to rely on official updates from the police and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and to refrain from spreading unverified information on social media.

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The Nigeria Police Force is collaborating closely with sister security agencies to monitor and address potential threats effectively. Any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process will be swiftly identified and brought to justice.