JAMB Re-Arrests Exam Fraud Syndicate Leader Over UTME Scam [VIDEO]

Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board Re-Arrests Fraud Suspect Over UTME Scam Affecting 131 Candidates

 

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has re-arrested an alleged fraud suspect, Emmanuel Akataka, in a case that has raised serious concern among candidates after reports linked the scam to over 131 victims.

JAMB disclosed that the suspect was apprehended again after allegedly returning to fraudulent activities, despite a previous arrest and release on bail.

How the Scam Was Carried Out

According to reports from Abuja, the suspect allegedly used fake online identities and false promises of JAMB assistance to deceive candidates preparing for the 2026 UTME.

The board emphasized that:

▪ No individual or group can influence UTME results
▪ No one can assist candidates illegally
▪ No system manipulation is possible under any circumstance

Use of Fake Identities and WhatsApp Fraud

Exam Fraud Syndicate Leader

JAMB revealed that the suspect initially operated under the alias “Official Frederick”, where he used WhatsApp platforms to promote fake score upgrade services.

▪ At least 94 candidates reportedly paid for these non-existent services

After being granted bail, the suspect allegedly contacted victims again using another identity, “Sir Frederick.”

▪ He demanded ₦70,000 from each candidate
▪ Claimed he could prevent JAMB from cancelling their registrations
▪ Falsely stated he had internal connections within JAMB

Confession and Scale of the Fraud

In a separate report by The Guardian, the suspect allegedly admitted that:

▪ At least 131 candidates were defrauded in 2026 alone
▪ Payments ranged between ₦5,000 and ₦8,000

He also confessed to using AI-generated content, including tools like the Gemini app, to make his scam appear credible online.

Suspect’s Statement

The suspect reportedly pleaded for mercy, expressing regret over his actions.

He attributed his involvement in fraud to:

▪ Financial hardship
▪ Family pressure
▪ His mother’s illness
▪ The death of his father in 2025

According to reports, he claimed to have made over ₦1.5 million, although JAMB officials stated the actual amount could be significantly higher.

JAMB Issues Strong Warning to Candidates

JAMB used the case to reiterate its warning to candidates and parents:

▪ Paying for score upgrades or special assistance is illegal
▪ Candidates risk losing their money and registration
▪ Offenders may face prosecution

The board also confirmed ongoing collaboration with security agencies to identify, arrest, and prosecute individuals involved in examination fraud.

Part of a Wider Crackdown

This incident is part of a broader crackdown by JAMB on exam malpractice linked to the 2026 UTME.

Earlier in March, the board revealed the existence of AI-driven fraud syndicates targeting candidates and warned parents against encouraging academic dishonesty.

Final Advisory to Candidates

For students preparing honestly, this serves as a critical reminder:

▪ There is no secret link to boost UTME scores
▪ No agent can alter results
▪ No backdoor access exists

JAMB maintains a clear stance:
Any candidate who falls for such scams risks financial loss, registration cancellation, and legal consequences.