JAMB sanctions fingerprint irregularities in 2025 UTME registration, recommending strict penalties for erring centres and candidates to protect exam integrity
JAMB sanctions fingerprint irregularities that marred the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination registration, recommending firm penalties against 11 Computer-Based Test centres and several registrants involved in biometric infractions.
Also read: JAMB registrar Prof.Ishaq Oloyede rejects bias allegations amidst UTME controversy
This move comes as the board intensifies efforts to safeguard the credibility of its examination process.
The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Prof Ishaq Oloyede, conveyed this during a high-level meeting with stakeholders and affected CBT operators in Abuja.
Represented by the board’s Public Communication Adviser, Dr Fabian Benjamin, Oloyede emphasised that the recommended actions are subject to the final approval of the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa.
A biometric glitch affected approximately 380,000 candidates across Lagos and parts of the Southeast, leading to incomplete or inaccurate fingerprint data.
This prompted JAMB’s leadership to review the failures and propose sanctions to deter future misconduct.
Among the measures proposed is a three-year ban on any registrant found to have submitted more than 50 candidates with biometric infractions.
Such individuals would be barred from participating in any JAMB activities, including as UTME candidates or officials. After the suspension, the board may reassess their status based on evidence of remorse.
Those involved in fewer than 50 infractions would receive warnings and must submit a letter of apology along with a signed bond of ethical compliance.
JAMB stressed that this disciplinary structure is aimed at correcting behaviour and restoring trust in the registration system.
Oloyede also directed that all affected CBT centres must secure certification from federal institutions confirming that their staff have undergone ethical training before they can be considered for future engagements.
Government-owned centres implicated in the breach will be reported to relevant authorities for further action.
Notable centres summoned to the Abuja meeting include Misau Emirate ICT Centre in Bauchi, Ijaw National Academy in Bayelsa, Nigerian Army University’s ICT Directorate in Biu, Emerald IT Academy in Edo, and Huntsville Technology Limited in Lagos.
Others include Jolas College CBT Centre, Jicoras CBT Centre in Jigawa, and Abdul Ocean Weath Centre in Oyo, among others.
Several centre representatives admitted to the misconduct, citing ignorance and pressure to meet high registration demands.
Bashir Gumel of Jicoras CBT Centre confirmed that an internal investigation is underway and pledged to hold all involved accountable.
A key stakeholder at the session, former Lagos Commissioner of Police Fatai Owoseni, condemned the actions as criminal and worthy of prosecution. However, he appealed to JAMB for leniency if those involved signed formal undertakings.
Despite calls for compassion, JAMB remains firm on its stance. The board insists that future compliance will depend entirely on corrective action and documented evidence of ethical retraining.
Also read: JAMB announces mop-up UTME for over 5.6% absent candidates
As Nigeria continues to digitalise its education infrastructure, JAMB’s decisive approach signals a strong commitment to integrity and accountability in national examinations.
