The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a stern warning to candidates appearing for the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to beware of fraudulent schemes promising to deliver results without registered SIM cards. This caution comes in response to reports of deceitful activities orchestrated by individuals working in collaboration with an individual identified as Raphael at the Lagos State University (LASU) Computer Based Test (CBT) Centre.
In a statement released through its official Twitter handle @JAMBHQ, JAMB emphasized the risks associated with engaging third parties for exam-related services, urging candidates to avoid falling victim to scams. The board highlighted the fraudulent tactics employed by certain individuals, particularly pointing out one Fomo Web3 @Chaser67y, who has been actively misleading candidates with false assurances of securing UTME results without the necessity of registered SIM cards.
JAMB’s Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, emphasized the seriousness of the issue during a press conference held earlier today. He stated, “We have observed with great concern the alarming rise in fraudulent activities targeting vulnerable UTME candidates. It is disheartening that some unscrupulous individuals are exploiting the aspirations of our youth for personal gain.” Prof. Oloyede further warned, “These fraudsters are not only jeopardizing the credibility of our examination process but also preying on the trust of unsuspecting candidates.”
The board has vowed to take decisive action against the perpetrators involved in these deceptive practices. “We are actively investigating this matter and will ensure that those responsible face the full consequences of their actions,” assured Prof. Oloyede. He encouraged candidates to report any suspicious activities or solicitations immediately to the appropriate authorities.
In response to the unfolding situation, concerned stakeholders have expressed their support for JAMB’s efforts to safeguard the integrity of the UTME. Dr. Adebayo Okunade, a representative of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), emphasized the need for vigilance among candidates. “It is crucial that students remain vigilant and rely only on official channels for information regarding their UTME results,” Dr. Okunade remarked.
Additionally, the Nigerian Police Force has pledged its commitment to collaborating with JAMB in apprehending those responsible for perpetrating fraudulent activities. ACP Mariam Yusuf, the Force Public Relations Officer, affirmed, “We are working closely with JAMB to identify and arrest the individuals behind these scams. Such criminal activities will not be tolerated, and the perpetrators will face the full wrath of the law.”
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education has assured the public of its support for JAMB’s initiatives aimed at maintaining the credibility of national examinations. Hon. Chika Udo, the Minister of State for Education, reiterated the government’s stance on eradicating exam malpractice. “We stand firmly with JAMB in their efforts to combat fraud in our educational system. Our priority remains ensuring fairness and transparency in all examination processes,” Hon. Udo declared.
As investigations continue, JAMB has advised candidates to strictly adhere to guidelines and protocols established for the UTME. The board emphasized that all communications regarding examination results will be officially communicated through registered SIM cards linked to candidates’ profiles. “It is imperative that candidates do not engage with unauthorized individuals claiming to offer shortcuts or special privileges,” cautioned JAMB’s spokesperson.
