Two Candidates, Parent Arrested for Forging UTME Scores with AI

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has confirmed the arrest of two candidates and a parent for allegedly falsifying 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results using artificial intelligence tools.

How the Fraud Was Carried Out

According to JAMB, the suspects manipulated official result notifications sent via SMS, altering scores to make them appear higher than what was actually obtained. The aim, authorities say, was to deceive parents, guardians, and the general public. 

The board’s spokesperson explained that the fraud involved tampering with messages from JAMB’s official result channels, a method increasingly linked to tech-driven examination malpractice. 

Arrest and Investigation

JAMB confirmed that all three suspects are currently in custody, with investigations ongoing. The arrests were announced alongside the release of UTME results for candidates who sat the exam on April 16. 

Authorities have warned that the use of AI and other digital tools to manipulate examination results is a serious criminal offence, and those found guilty will face legal consequences. 

JAMB’s Warning to Candidates

The examination body issued a strong warning to candidates nationwide, cautioning them against:

• Altering official result messages

• Engaging third parties to “upgrade” scores

• Using any digital tools to falsify examination outcomes

JAMB emphasized that such actions not only violate examination rules but also undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s education system. 

Growing Concern Over Tech-Driven Exam Fraud

This incident highlights a rising trend of technology-assisted malpractice, where candidates and even parents collaborate to manipulate results. JAMB has reiterated its commitment to working with security agencies to clamp down on such practices and preserve the integrity of the UTME. 

Conclusion

The arrest serves as a clear warning that while technology like AI can be beneficial, its misuse in academic processes carries serious consequences. As the 2026 UTME continues, authorities are urging candidates to rely on hard work and integrity rather than shortcuts that could jeopardize their future.