JAMB Raises Alarm Over AI-Assisted Impersonation by UTME Candidates
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has uncovered a new method of exam malpractice involving the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by candidates seeking unfair advantages in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
This discovery comes in the wake of a disturbing trend where candidates are allegedly using AI tools to falsely present themselves as individuals with albinism, thereby taking advantage of the special accommodations typically given to candidates living with disabilities.
AI Used to Exploit Disability Privileges
JAMB’s Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, made this revelation during his monitoring visit to a mop-up UTME exercise at the Technology CBT Centre in NAF Valley Estate, Abuja. He expressed serious concerns over how some candidates have begun using advanced photo-editing and face-blending technologies to appear as albinos in their registration documents.
“We observed an unusual spike in the number of candidates claiming to have albinism. Historically, we have never had up to 100 albino candidates in any given year. But this year, the number shockingly jumped to 1,787,” Oloyede stated.
He explained that these impersonators were attempting to bypass strict identification checks by exploiting the visual characteristics associated with albinism. Many CBT centers, he said, reported similar suspicious registrations — with one particular centre registering over 450 supposed albinos, a number too high to be coincidental.
How the Scam Was Detected
JAMB’s suspicions were confirmed when they began closely scrutinizing biometric and photographic data. Through investigation, it was discovered that candidates were using AI-based applications to blend facial features with those of actual persons with albinism. These digitally altered images were then used during registration to falsely obtain disability status.
“One of the suspects in custody gave us insights into how the operation works,” Prof. Oloyede said. “They capture two different photos — one of the impersonator and one of a real albino — and use AI software to generate a blend that mimics the skin tone and eye features of an albino. These forged photos are then used to deceive the system.”
He further explained that the reason behind such tactics was the preferential treatment sometimes granted to persons with disabilities during exams, such as extended time or additional assistance.
Previous Incidents of Impersonation
This isn’t the first time JAMB is dealing with impersonation scandals. Just last month, the examination body uncovered a shocking case in which a visually impaired candidate allegedly hired another blind individual to sit the UTME on his behalf.
These revelations have sparked nationwide concerns over how technology, while offering progress, is also being weaponized to aid exam malpractice.
JAMB Responds with Tougher Measures
Reacting swiftly to the alarming discovery, JAMB has introduced new security enhancements, including more robust biometric verification and the deployment of AI-detection tools to counter digital photo manipulation.
“We are constantly improving our systems to outsmart those who attempt to cheat,” the JAMB boss declared. “Candidates who engage in any form of impersonation or deceit will face strict sanctions — including being disqualified, banned from future exams, or even prosecuted.”
Prof. Oloyede used the opportunity to urge parents and candidates to avoid dishonest practices. He emphasized that success in exams should be based on hard work and preparation, not on cheating or manipulation.
Public Reactions and Concerns
Many Nigerians have reacted with disbelief and disappointment at the increasing creativity in exam fraud. Educational stakeholders are calling for more investment in digital forensics and candidate vetting, while others blame systemic desperation among youths seeking university admission.
“This is both a moral and technological issue,” said one education analyst. “As AI becomes more accessible, so does the temptation to misuse it. Examination bodies must now stay two steps ahead.”
Implications for the Future
This situation opens up broader conversations about the ethical use of AI in Nigeria, especially in sectors like education, security, and recruitment. As the technology becomes more advanced, the need for strict regulation and awareness also grows.
For JAMB, this may be just the beginning of a new kind of exam malpractice war — one fought not with cheat sheets, but with code, graphics, and digital illusions.
Final Note
Students preparing for the UTME are advised to steer clear of dishonest tactics. As JAMB continues to evolve and improve its security systems, those who attempt to cheat using AI or impersonation will only face disappointment and legal consequences.
It’s high time integrity returned to the education system, and every stakeholder — students, parents, schools, and government — must play their part.
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