JAMB Clears its Name as Investigation Reveals Forgery of UTME Result, Scholarships Revoked

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released an official statement in response to the acknowledgment by Ejikeme Mmesoma that she forged her contested UTME result. JAMB stated that the report from the Commission of Inquiry, established by the Anambra State Government to investigate the matter, has vindicated the board and reaffirmed that its system remains uncompromised.

Earlier investigations conducted at the request of Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, revealed that Mmesoma had manipulated her UTME score, presenting a forged result of 362 while her actual score was 249, as confirmed by JAMB.

In a statement released on Saturday by Fabian Benjamin, the Acting Director of Public Affairs and Protocol (PAP) at JAMB, the board expressed its determination to uphold its reputation despite attempts to tarnish its image. JAMB also expressed disappointment in Nigerians who doubted the integrity of the country’s institutions and seized any opportunity to undermine the board.

The statement emphasized the importance of credible and fair assessments in the education sector, highlighting the Board’s commitment to upholding these principles. JAMB further asserted that it will continue to forge ahead, undeterred by detractors, and called for support from well-meaning Nigerians who believe in healthy competition and the recognition of deserving candidates.

The report of the Commission of Inquiry, an independent and unbiased body, validated JAMB’s position that its system remains uncompromised. The board reiterated its dedication to inclusiveness and fairness, citing the use of its Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) as a testament to its commitment to equity and transparency.

JAMB expressed regret over the incident involving Mmesoma, emphasizing that her fraudulent actions were aimed at undermining the board’s mission to allocate educational resources based on fairness, equity, and integrity. The statement also criticized the tendency of attacking institutions that make the nation proud, urging Nigerians to appreciate the genuine efforts of critical national institutions.

Additionally, the statement warned candidates against fraudulent applications promising score enhancements, as these only lead to anguish and misery. JAMB encouraged well-meaning individuals to verify any claims made by candidates and cautioned against falling victim to misinformation.

Meanwhile, Aisha Yesufu, a human rights activist, commented on the flaws in the country’s electoral system, suggesting that it may have influenced students like Mmesoma to engage in exam malpractice. However, her remarks were met with criticism for politicizing the issue.

In a related development, Obiageli Ezekwesili, the former Minister of Education, expressed satisfaction with the independent investigation conducted by the Anambra State Government into the Mmesoma saga. She supported the sanctions imposed by JAMB as a deterrent against exam malpractice and called for sustained counseling for Mmesoma to guide her towards embracing honesty and integrity.

Furthermore, Innoson Group, an automobile manufacturing company, announced the withdrawal of a ₦3 million scholarship awarded to Mmesoma Ejikeme following the confirmation of her UTME score manipulation. Innoson Vehicles cited the importance of upholding honesty, integrity, and merit-based recognition as the basis for their decision.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 8, 2023

Innoson Vehicles Withdraws Scholarship from Miss Joy Mmesoma Ejikeme Following UTME Score Manipulation.

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— Innoson Vehicles (@innosonvehicles) July 8, 2023

The incident involving Mmesoma has sparked discussions on the importance of exam integrity and the need for collective efforts to maintain high standards in Nigeria’s education system.

JAMB has remained resolute in its commitment to delivering credible and fair assessments, while emphasizing the significance of supporting and encouraging deserving candidates based on merit.