JAMB Re-arrests Fraud Suspect Linked to Exam Scam
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the re-arrest of Emmanuel Prayz Akataka, a suspect implicated in recent attempts to defraud exam candidates through score manipulation and misleading promises of registration protection.
In a statement issued on Thursday, JAMB Registrar Professor Ishaku Oloyede revealed that Akataka, who had previously been arrested for participating in a syndicate involved in identity theft and online fraud targeting Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) candidates, returned to criminal activities shortly after being granted bail.
Professor Oloyede explained that the suspect had initially operated using the alias “Official Frederick” on WhatsApp, enticing vulnerable candidates with offers of inflated scores. This fraudulent scheme reportedly deceived at least 94 candidates into paying for what he termed “illegal and non-existent services.”
After his release, Akataka allegedly resumed contacting the same victims under the new pseudonym ‘Sir Frederick’, demanding N70,000 from each candidate, falsely claiming to be an insider at JAMB and offering to prevent their deregistration.
Investigations by JAMB revealed that Akataka initially utilized his father’s bank account to collect payments before opening another account under the alias “Zainab Rafiu”. He falsely presented this identity as a JAMB director to lend legitimacy to his fraudulent activities.
This troubling trend has raised alarms at JAMB, which indicated that many of the duped candidates had previously encountered fraud yet fell victim again. The board remarked on the alarming willingness of some candidates to prioritize illicit gain over integrity.
“This conduct is not only criminal, but it also highlights the deceptive and exploitative nature of such syndicates,” the board asserted, firmly reiterating that no individual or organization can influence UTME outcomes or provide any form of “special assistance.” Furthermore, testing organizations have cautioned candidates and the public against fraudulent claims of enhanced scores or exam support, which may carry legal penalties. Involvement in such schemes can result in both financial loss and legal repercussions.
JAMB reiterated its commitment to collaborate with law enforcement to trace and prosecute all individuals connected to exam fraud. The board has also urged parents and candidates to adhere strictly to legal processes. Additionally, JAMB disclosed that it has secured convictions for at least six individuals since 2025, including Mr. Ibrahim Abdulaziz, who received a three-year prison sentence without the option of a fine for impersonation.
Reaffirming its stance, JAMB emphasized that the integrity of Nigeria’s examination system is non-negotiable and pledged to continue its efforts in safeguarding it against fraudulent activities.
