The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has arrested two candidates and one parent for allegedly engaging in the falsification of Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results using artificial intelligence and other electronic methods.
The development was disclosed by JAMB’s spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, following the release of the first batch of 2026 UTME results. According to the board, the suspects are currently in custody and will face prosecution for their involvement in the fraudulent scheme.
JAMB explained that the suspects attempted to manipulate official result messages to mislead stakeholders, including institutions and families, into believing that candidates had obtained higher scores than they actually earned.
The board described such actions as a serious criminal offence, stressing that its result system is secure and cannot be legitimately altered.
“Two candidates and one parent are in custody for engaging in result falsification using AI and other electronic means,” the statement noted, warning that offenders would face the full weight of the law.
JAMB reiterated that candidates can only check their results through official channels, particularly via SMS using the registered phone numbers, and cautioned against relying on third-party platforms or individuals promising score upgrades.
The examination body further maintained a zero-tolerance stance on malpractice, noting that it has strengthened its monitoring systems and is working closely with security agencies to track offenders nationwide.
Education analysts say the arrest highlights a growing trend of technologically driven examination fraud, with some parents now implicated in attempts to secure undue advantage for their children.
As the 2026 UTME continues, JAMB urged candidates and parents to adhere strictly to lawful procedures, warning that any attempt to manipulate results would lead to arrest, cancellation of results, and possible prosecution.
