Abuja, Nigeria — The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has uncovered what it described as a “mindboggling” wave of examination fraud in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), exposing organised syndicates that used biometric manipulation, forged identities, and even artificial intelligence to compromise the process.
The revelations came from the Special Committee on Examination Infractions (SCEI), chaired by Dr. Jake Epelle, which reviewed irregularities recorded across centres nationwide.
According to its findings, 4,251 cases of “finger blending” — a method where candidates manipulate biometric fingerprint verification — were detected. At least 190 instances of AI-assisted impersonation, including image morphing to assume another person’s identity, were also flagged.
The committee further identified 1,878 false disability claims, forged documents, multiple National Identification Number (NIN) registrations, and collusion involving candidates, parents, schools, and some computer-based test (CBT) operators.
In total, JAMB has withheld 39,834 results over suspected malpractice, while 6,458 candidates remain under investigation.
Why It Matters
Officials say the scale and sophistication of the fraud marks a shift from traditional exam malpractice into highly organised, technology-driven schemes. Experts warn that biometric manipulation and AI impersonation undermine confidence in the very verification systems designed to safeguard national examinations.
The sheer volume of withheld results also suggests systemic weaknesses in oversight and infrastructure at registration and CBT centres.
Sanctions and Next Steps
The SCEI recommended sweeping reforms, including the deployment of AI-powered biometric anomaly detection, real-time centre monitoring, and tougher penalties. These range from cancellation of results to bans of one to three years for offenders, as well as legal prosecution.
It also proposed the creation of a Central Discipline and Sanctions Registry, stronger verification of disability claims, and amendments to examination malpractice laws to cover emerging digital fraud.
Already, some CBT centres are facing sanctions, with JAMB promising to intensify enforcement in collaboration with security agencies.
Impact Beyond the Classroom
Analysts note that the scandal has wide-reaching implications. Honest students risk being overshadowed by systemic failures or unfairly penalised. Parents — some complicit, others unwittingly dragged in — face legal and financial risks. Schools and CBT centres implicated could lose accreditation or face closure.
Ultimately, observers warn that unless reforms are implemented and enforced, public trust in JAMB, the UTME, and Nigeria’s wider admissions process may continue to erode.
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