Nigerian Students Protected From Fake Exam Coordinator

When students showed up at a computer center in Atani, Nigeria to check their exam locations, they had no idea someone was trying to scam them.

Eric Nwombu claimed to be an official coordinator for JAMB, Nigeria's university entrance exam system. But staff at the computer center noticed something wasn't right about his story or his suspicious behavior.

Rather than ignore their concerns, the employees contacted police from the Inspector-General of Police Safe School Initiative on April 14. When Nwombu spotted officers approaching, he tried to run, but police caught him quickly.

Officers recovered eight exam documents and a notebook filled with student names and exam numbers that Nwombu couldn't explain. The fake coordinator had been collecting examination slips from unsuspecting students who came to verify their test center locations for the 2026 JAMB exam.

Police arrested Nwombu on charges of criminal impersonation and unlawful possession of exam materials. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.

The Ripple Effect

This arrest highlights how ordinary citizens can protect their communities by staying alert and taking action. The computer center staff didn't have law enforcement training, but they trusted their instincts when something seemed wrong.

Their decision to call police instead of looking the other way potentially saved dozens of students from having their exam information compromised. Protecting the integrity of these entrance exams means protecting students' futures and their paths to higher education.

Police Commissioner Ikioye Orutugu praised the outcome and reinforced the department's commitment to safeguarding public examinations. He encouraged all Nigerians to stay watchful and report suspicious activity immediately.

When communities work together with law enforcement, scammers lose and honest students win.