The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has confirmed that the seven individuals abducted while travelling from Makurdi to Otukpo were not candidates for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), dispelling earlier false reports that had circulated widely. The victims, who were part of an ongoing police recruitment exercise in Makurdi, have since been rescued by security agencies, according to a statement released by JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin. The clarification comes after misinformation linked the incident to JAMB’s examination schedule, causing unnecessary alarm among students and parents nationwide.
JAMB emphasized that the seven individuals were not UTME candidates and were instead returning to Otukpo following their participation in the recruitment process. The Board expressed deep relief at their safe recovery, noting that the possibility of their prolonged captivity was deeply distressing. The statement also extended hope for the rescue of any other individuals who may still be in captivity, underscoring the urgency of addressing insecurity in the region.
The Board condemned the spread of unverified information, calling the claims linking the abduction to UTME candidates “premature and unfounded.” It stressed that none of the victims were involved in the examination process and that the narrative lacked credibility from the beginning. JAMB noted that UTME candidates are usually assigned to different examination centres, making it highly unlikely for a group to travel together for the exam, further disproving the false connection.
JAMB also expressed regret over the tendency to blame institutions without proper verification, highlighting that some individuals seem more focused on assigning blame than seeking the truth. The Board reiterated that no Nigerian should ever be subjected to kidnapping, regardless of their identity or reason for travel. It urged the public to prioritize compassion and national unity over speculation and misinformation during such crises.
In its closing remarks, JAMB reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining global standards in its operations and called for stronger national security measures to prevent future incidents. The Board’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate reporting and responsible communication, especially during emergencies. As Nigeria continues to grapple with security challenges, the safe rescue of the seven individuals offers a glimmer of hope and underscores the need for coordinated efforts to ensure public safety.
Leave a Comment