The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has arrested two candidates and a parent for allegedly forging Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results using artificial intelligence and other electronic tools.
The board made this known on Friday while announcing the release of results for 632,788 candidates who sat for the 2026 UTME on Thursday, April 16.
JAMB spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, said in a statement that the suspects were caught manipulating official SMS result notifications to change or create fake scores. According to him, the aim was to mislead others, including parents, guardians, and possibly schools.
“Currently, two candidates and one parent are in custody for engaging in result falsification using AI and other electronic means,” the statement said.
He explained that the suspects used technology to tamper with messages sent from JAMB’s official result-checking platforms. These platforms, which operate through the short codes 55019 and 66019, are the only approved channels for candidates to receive their UTME results via SMS.
Benjamin warned that altering or forging examination results is a serious criminal offence and would not be tolerated. He added that the board is working with security agencies to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.
“This act is not only dishonest but also criminal. JAMB will pursue all culpable persons to the full extent of the law,” he said.
The development has raised fresh concerns about the misuse of artificial intelligence and digital tools among young people, especially in the education sector. While AI has become a useful tool for learning and research, authorities say it is now being abused for fraudulent activities.
The UTME is one of the most important examinations for Nigerian students seeking admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Each year, millions of candidates sit for the exam, making it highly competitive.
Because of this, there is often pressure on candidates to perform well, sometimes leading to cases of malpractice and fraud. However, JAMB has, in recent years, introduced stricter measures to curb cheating, including the use of computer-based testing and improved monitoring systems.
The board’s latest action shows that it is also paying attention to new forms of fraud involving digital technology.
Benjamin advised candidates to avoid any attempt to tamper with their results or use fake platforms. He stressed that the only valid way to check UTME results is by sending “UTMERESULT” via SMS to 55019 or 66019 using the phone number used during registration.
He also clarified that the printing of official result slips is not yet available. According to him, candidates will be informed when the service becomes active.
“Candidates are strongly advised not to engage in any form of manipulation of their results. Any attempt to do so will attract serious consequences,” he said.
Meanwhile, JAMB confirmed that the 2026 UTME, which began on April 16, will run until April 22 at various accredited centres across the country.
The board added that results will continue to be released in batches as the examination progresses. Candidates who have not yet received their results are advised to remain patient.
Some parents and education stakeholders have reacted to the arrests, describing them as a necessary step to protect the integrity of the examination process.
They also called on JAMB to increase public awareness about the dangers and consequences of result falsification, especially with the growing use of digital tools.
A school administrator in Lagos, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the involvement of a parent in the alleged fraud was particularly troubling.
“It is worrying that a parent would be part of this kind of act. Parents are supposed to guide their children, not encourage wrongdoing,” he said.
He added that moral values and honesty should be emphasised both at home and in schools to discourage such behaviour.
As technology continues to evolve, experts say there is a need for stronger digital literacy and ethics education among students. This, they believe, will help young people understand both the benefits and risks of using advanced tools like artificial intelligence.
For now, JAMB’s message is clear: any attempt to cheat or manipulate examination results, whether through traditional methods or modern technology, will be met with strict action.
The arrests serve as a warning to other candidates and parents that the board is watching closely and is ready to act against any form of examination fraud.
As the 2026 UTME continues, many Nigerians will be hoping for a fair and transparent process that rewards hard work and merit, while discouraging dishonest practices.