JAMB Exposes Sophisticated Cheating in 2025 UTME

 A special investigation by Nigeria’s examination board has uncovered thousands of high-tech cheating cases in the 2025 UTME, revealing a crisis in academic integrity. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has withheld results of over 6,000 candidates amid evidence of advanced malpractice.

The JAMB Special Committee on Examination Infractions, led by Jake Epelle, reported 4,251 cases of “finger blending” and 192 instances of AI-assisted impersonation through image morphing, as per AFP. Launched on August 18, the panel also documented 1,878 false disability claims, forged credentials, and syndicate collusion involving parents, tutorial centers, and some CBT operators. 

JAMB Registrar Ishaq Oloyede called the findings “alarming,” noting that technology-driven fraud, including biometric manipulation, threatens Nigeria’s admission process. The committee recommends AI-powered biometric tools and a centralized security operations center to curb future violations.

The revelations have shocked educators, with some blaming weak legal frameworks, others pointing to societal pressures for academic success. The findings test JAMB’s ability to restore trust in Nigeria’s education system. As reforms are proposed, the nation grapples with balancing innovation with integrity, ensuring fair opportunities for its youth.