The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has re-arrested a suspect, Emmanuel Akataka, who confessed to masterminding a sophisticated online fraud scheme that defrauded more than 131 candidates. This arrest comes despite Akataka having been previously apprehended and released by the board, after which he resumed his illegal activities.
Confession and Contradictory Figures
During an interview with reporters at JAMB's headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, Akataka admitted to his crimes, expressing shame and pleading for one last chance. He claimed to have made over N1.5 million from the scheme. However, the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, contradicted this, insisting that Akataka actually defrauded UTME candidates of more than N8 million by promising to inflate their scores in this year's examination.
Motivation and Background
Akataka, a 26-year-old native of Delta State, attributed his actions to poverty and mounting family pressures. He cited his mother's ill health and the death of his father in 2025 as factors that drove him back into fraud shortly after regaining freedom. "I am ashamed of everything I did. All I am asking for is one last chance. I will never go back to this act again," he stated.
Operation Details
Investigations revealed that Akataka operated under multiple aliases and ran a fraudulent online platform called "Example Master Educational Platform." He lured unsuspecting candidates with promises of JAMB "assistance," with payments ranging from N5,000 to N8,000. At least 131 candidates fell victim to his scheme this year alone.
Use of Technology and Social Media
Akataka disclosed that he used artificial intelligence (AI) to create convincing posts and images, deploying digital tools like the Gemini application to make his operations appear legitimate. He exploited the desperation of candidates seeking high scores, particularly those aiming for competitive courses such as nursing. Many victims approached him directly, urging him to "help" them secure high marks.
JAMB's Response
JAMB's Director of Special Duties, Zainab Hamza, who addressed the media on behalf of Registrar Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, dismissed any justification for Akataka's actions. She emphasized that the board remains vigilant in tracking and dismantling fraud networks. During interrogation, she questioned why he returned to crime despite knowing the risks and prior consequences.
Denial of Insider Support
The suspect denied having any insider support within JAMB but admitted to leveraging social media groups and messaging platforms to expand his reach. He also confessed to using multiple bank accounts, including those registered under false identities, to receive payments from victims.
