Allegations surface over 2025 UTME top scorer: Did Chinedu Okeke cheat?
JAMB probes UTME top scorer
Controversy has erupted following JAMB’s revelation that 2025 UTME top scorer Chinedu Okeke may have cheated. Despite scoring an impressive 375 out of 400, evidence emerged suggesting he is already an undergraduate at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). Now, the board has launched a dual‑matriculation scandal probe that has stunned students, parents, and education stakeholders nationwide.
JAMB Flags Top Scorer, Chinedu Okeke Over Dual Matriculation
JAMB Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede confirmed that internal checks uncovered inconsistencies in Okeke’s records, he appears to be concurrently enrolled in UNN’s Medicine program while taking Mechanical Engineering at the University of Lagos via UTME.
“The law does not allow dual matriculation,” said Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s Public Communications Advisor. He emphasized that Okeke’s “advantage over other candidates” undermines fairness and integrity.
Who Is Chinedu Okeke?
Okeke is an Anambra State indigene and the 2025 UTME’s top candidate with 375 points, a record-high performance that initially drew significant acclaim. His UTME registration listed Mechanical Engineering at UNILAG as his first-choice course.
However, JAMB correspondence with UNN revealed he matriculated in Medicine four years ago and is still a registered student. There is no official record of withdrawal, causing alarm and further summons.
Possible Implications of the Probe
If found guilty, Okeke could face severe disciplinary action. This may include nullification of his 375 score, disqualification from admission, or prosecution under the 2015 Examination Malpractice Act. JAMB has also reached out to the Medical & Dental Council of Nigeria to prevent him from practicing pending resolution.
Analysts point out broader consequences: JAMB must uphold credibility and deter malicious actors who might manipulate systems by exploiting identity loopholes or multi-institution enrollment.
Reaction from JAMB and Stakeholders
Dr. Fabian Benjamin reiterated JAMB’s zero-tolerance policy, stating, “He may be a mercenary,” and confirming ongoing identity verification, forensic data review, and investigation.
The board has reached out to stakeholders at UNN, UNILAG, and NIMC (National Identity Management Commission) to confirm his records. They have also called for additional documentation to verify his past and present matriculation.
Broader Concerns Over UTME Integrity
This incident coincides with wider fraud concerns within UTME systems. JAMB says over 17,000 admission letters were forged by syndicates, and about 1,500 fake candidates were uncovered during mop-up exams.
Successive cases have underscored persistent threats: impersonation, identity fraud, temporary registration, and ghost candidates. Okeke’s case represents a potentially deeper fault line in dual matriculation and systemic vulnerabilities.
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What’s Next: Investigation & Transparency
JAMB’s probe team is expected to conclude its findings within weeks. If Okeke is guilty, his result will be nullified, and legal action likely taken. Should he be cleared, it will be a vindication, but might raise questions about data handling across institutions.
To rebuild trust, JAMB has pledged to publish audit findings, enforce stricter registration processes, and tighten data verification between exam bodies and university registries. These measures may become central to post-2025 UTME reforms.
What Students and Parents Should Do
UTME candidates are advised to ensure their records match across institutions and registration systems. Parents should confirm their wards have officially withdrawn from prior matriculations before taking exams.
Educational institutions should also upgrade their data validation processes and liaise with JAMB and NIMC to curb registration overlap and maintain academic integrity.
A Test of JAMB’s Credibility
The Chinedu Okeke scandal could define JAMB’s reputation in 2025. If the probe leads to decisive action and enhanced protocols, the board could emerge with stronger credibility. If mishandled, systemic deficiencies will come under greater scrutiny.
In the larger picture, this case brings into focus questions over data integration, candidate identity verification, and dual matriculation loopholes, challenges that Nigeria’s education system must resolve.