JAMB re-arrests suspect linked to an online fraud scheme targeting Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination candidates, in a development that highlights ongoing enforcement against examination malpractice in Nigeria.
The suspect, identified as Emmanuel Praise Akataka, is accused of defrauding 131 candidates through deceptive online operations.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board confirmed that the suspect was previously arrested for offences including impersonation, identity theft, and online fraud connected to UTME registration processes.
Following his earlier release on bail, authorities said he resumed similar activities, prompting renewed enforcement action.
According to the Board, the suspect operated through a coordinated digital scheme designed to mislead candidates seeking assistance with examination processes.
Investigations revealed that he created fictitious identities and used online platforms, including WhatsApp groups, to advertise illegal services such as score manipulation and result enhancement.
Officials disclosed that at least 131 candidates were affected by the fraudulent operation, with financial losses estimated at over N1.5 million.
The suspect reportedly demanded payments from candidates under false assurances that he could influence examination outcomes or prevent cancellation of their registrations.
JAMB Registrar, Is-haq Oloyede, represented by Director of Special Duties Zainab Hamza, stated that such claims are entirely fraudulent.
He reiterated that no individual or organisation has the capacity to alter UTME scores or influence admission outcomes outside established processes.
The Board further explained that affected candidates were given an opportunity to appear before a review committee to determine their level of involvement.
Following due process, approvals were obtained for the cancellation of registrations linked to the fraudulent scheme.
In detailing the suspect’s methods, JAMB said he initially used a bank account belonging to a relative to collect payments before opening another account under a false identity to continue the operation.
Authorities noted that the use of multiple identities was intended to evade detection while sustaining the fraud network.
The case forms part of broader efforts by JAMB to address examination malpractice and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s admission system.
The Board disclosed that more than six individuals have been convicted for related offences since 2025, including a case where a suspect received a three-year prison sentence for impersonation.
The development underscores increasing concerns about digital fraud targeting students and parents during examination periods.
JAMB warned that candidates who engage with such schemes risk financial loss and potential legal consequences, as participation in fraudulent activities constitutes a violation of examination regulations.
The JAMB re-arrests suspect case also highlights the role of inter-agency collaboration in addressing cyber-enabled education fraud.
The Board said it will continue to work with security agencies to track, apprehend, and prosecute offenders involved in examination-related crimes.
The recurrence of such schemes raises concerns about awareness levels among candidates and the need for stronger public education on examination procedures.
Authorities emphasised that reliance on unofficial channels undermines merit-based admission systems and erodes confidence in national examinations.
