Reported by Simon Daniel Yusuph l Journalist at Weng Global
JAMB takes disciplinary action over alleged extortion
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has dismissed a staff member over allegations of extorting candidates, reinforcing the examination body’s stated policy of zero tolerance for corruption and unethical conduct.
The development comes as JAMB continues efforts to protect candidates from individuals who allegedly demand money in exchange for services or assistance that should not require unofficial payments.
The Board has repeatedly warned candidates, parents and other stakeholders against dealing with individuals who promise to manipulate examination or admission processes for financial gain.
JAMB strengthens anti-corruption measures
JAMB’s position forms part of a wider effort to strengthen accountability within the organisation and protect the integrity of its examination and admission processes.
The Board has previously acknowledged concerns over alleged extortion involving some officials and other operators dealing with candidates.
In a 2024 bulletin, JAMB said it had received reports of alleged extortion connected with services such as regularisation and other candidate-related processes. The Board said it would investigate credible complaints and deal appropriately with staff found culpable.
JAMB also has an Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), which developed a whistleblowing policy aimed at promoting accountability and transparency within the Board.
The latest dismissal therefore comes within an established institutional framework for addressing alleged misconduct.
Examination candidates remain targets for fraudsters
Candidates preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) have repeatedly been warned about fraudulent individuals offering services that JAMB does not authorise.
Earlier in 2026, JAMB disclosed investigations into an online fraud network that allegedly targeted candidates with promises of score enhancement and other forms of examination assistance.
According to JAMB, the network operated through an online platform and allegedly collected money from candidates while falsely claiming to provide services capable of influencing UTME results. The Board said such services were non-existent.
In another case reported by JAMB in March, an individual allegedly used false identities to approach candidates after previously being arrested over fraudulent activities. The Board said the individual subsequently demanded N70,000 from candidates while claiming he could prevent the cancellation of their registrations.
These cases illustrate the risks faced by candidates who believe that unofficial payments can secure examination or admission advantages.
JAMB warns against paying for unofficial services
The Board’s repeated warnings indicate that candidates should use JAMB’s authorised channels for registration, admission processing, result-related services and other official transactions.
The distinction is important because candidates may sometimes encounter individuals claiming to have special access to JAMB systems or officials.
JAMB has continued to emphasise that examination results, scores and admissions cannot legitimately be secured through fraudulent payments or unofficial arrangements.
The Board’s official support system also directs candidates with account and registration problems to its authorised support channels and JAMB offices where physical intervention is necessary.
Protecting the integrity of the admission process
JAMB administers the UTME and coordinates the central admissions process through its Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS).
The Board’s current admissions platform shows that millions of candidates are involved in the 2026/2027 admission cycle, underlining the scale of the system and the importance of maintaining public confidence in its processes.
Any allegation of staff extortion can therefore have consequences beyond the individuals directly involved because candidates depend on JAMB officials and approved service channels to resolve sensitive registration, examination and admission issues.
For candidates and parents, the safest approach is to verify payment instructions and official procedures before making transactions or handing money to anyone claiming to represent the Board.
Zero tolerance extends beyond staff misconduct
JAMB’s anti-corruption position also covers examination malpractice and attempts to manipulate UTME outcomes.
The Board has maintained that candidates and other participants involved in examination fraud can face sanctions.
In its 2026 communications, JAMB reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to examination malpractice and warned against prohibited items and other practices capable of undermining the credibility of the UTME.
The Board has also taken action against candidates linked to fraudulent schemes, indicating that its enforcement approach is not limited to staff members.
This places responsibility on both officials and candidates to follow established procedures.
What candidates should know
Candidates should be cautious whenever anyone claims to have the ability to:
- Increase or alter UTME scores.
- Secure admission outside the official process.
- Cancel an examination-related sanction through unofficial channels.
- Obtain special treatment through payment.
- Access or manipulate JAMB records.
- Resolve an official matter through an unauthorised intermediary.
Such claims should be treated with caution and reported through appropriate channels where necessary.
Candidates experiencing genuine difficulties with their JAMB profiles, registration or admission status can use the Board’s official support system or visit an authorised JAMB office when instructed to do so.
JAMB’s recent explanation of admission statuses also reminds candidates that processes on CAPS can remain ongoing, meaning a candidate marked “Not Admitted” does not necessarily mean the admission process has permanently ended.
Why the dismissal matters
The dismissal sends a message that allegations of misconduct involving candidates can result in disciplinary action within the examination body.
For JAMB, maintaining confidence in its processes is particularly important because candidates and families often depend on the Board during high-pressure periods involving examinations, results and university admissions.
The wider challenge, however, extends beyond dismissing individual staff members. Effective anti-corruption measures also require accessible official channels, transparent procedures, prompt investigation of complaints and continued public awareness.
Candidates likewise have a role to play by refusing to pay for fraudulent services and reporting suspected misconduct through appropriate channels.
What happens next
JAMB is expected to continue monitoring its personnel and candidate-facing processes as the 2026/2027 admission cycle progresses.
The Board’s existing anti-corruption and examination-integrity measures indicate that complaints involving extortion, fraud or malpractice can be subject to investigation and sanctions where evidence establishes wrongdoing.
Candidates should therefore rely on official JAMB information and authorised support channels rather than individuals claiming to possess special influence within the system.
The latest disciplinary action reinforces JAMB’s stated position that access to examination and admission services should not become an avenue for unofficial payments or corruption.
Weng Global – Stories beyond borders
Sources
- Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) — Official 2026 bulletins and anti-corruption information.
- Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board — Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS).
- Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board — Central Online Support System.
- Punch — Reporting on JAMB’s candidate admission-status guidance.
