A growing network of examination malpractice syndicates is employing increasingly sophisticated strategies to compromise the integrity of national exams, investigations have revealed.
Investigations have revealed that malpractice tactics now go far beyond traditional cheating.
These include multiple registrations by candidates across different centres, impersonation, extortion of candidates, and even deliberate disruption of exams in adjacent centres to create chaos that benefits paid exam takers.
There is also a disturbing rise in biometric manipulation, where fresh photographs and fingerprints are captured illegally to allow impostors take exams on behalf of registered candidates.
Central to these operations are private Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres, some of which have been found colluding with parents and candidates to undermine biometric verification processes.
These centres are often used to register candidates multiple times with slightly altered data, enabling syndicates to swap real candidates for professional exam writers on the day of the test.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), in conjunction with other educational stakeholders and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has identified and is actively investigating several implicated institutions and centres.
Some tertiary institutions have also been linked to the scandal, particularly where biometric data was fraudulently captured or substituted under their watch.
JAMB has issued a firm directive: no institution is permitted to capture new photographs or fingerprints for candidates already registered.
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This move is designed to curb impersonation and safeguard the authenticity of candidates’ data. Instead, JAMB will provide verified biometric information—including facial images and fingerprints—free of charge to institutions requiring them for admission processes.
The Board has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the integrity of Nigeria’s examination system and restoring public confidence.
Stakeholders are being urged to join the fight against exam fraud, as efforts intensify to dismantle the network of malpractice and bring offenders to justice.
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