JAMB declares war on internal fraud, sacks staff

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has terminated the appointment of a staff member accused of extorting unsuspecting candidates.

The Board disclosed this in its release bulletin on Monday, saying the disciplinary action formed part of its efforts to strengthen the integrity of Nigeria’s admission and examination processes.

JAMB said its crackdown on fraudulent practices extended beyond individuals operating outside the organisation, stressing that staff members found engaging in misconduct would also face sanctions.

“The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has terminated the appointment of one of its staff members for extorting unsuspecting candidates, in further demonstration of its renewed commitment to flushing out bad eggs from the system,” the Board stated.

According to JAMB, the action was also intended to reinforce its warning to employees against abusing their positions or taking advantage of candidates and members of the public.

“The Board once again warned all members of staff to desist from all forms of unwholesome conduct, particularly acts capable of undermining the integrity of the Board or exploiting candidates and members of the public, as such actions would attract severe consequences in accordance with established rules,” JAMB stated.

The Board said its campaign against fraud was not restricted to external offenders, adding that internal misconduct would be treated with the same seriousness.

“The Board stated that its resolve to sanitise the admission and examination processes is not targeted at external fraudsters alone, stressing that the same determination with which it has relentlessly pursued and dealt with fraudulent elements outside the Board is being brought to bear on internal misconduct.”

JAMB said the termination of the staff member was a clear indication that its zero-tolerance policy covered every employee, irrespective of rank or position.

“The Board noted that the action sends a clear and unequivocal message that its zero-tolerance policy on corruption and misconduct applies to everyone, irrespective of status or position.”

It further warned that employees who abused the confidence placed in them by candidates and members of the public would not receive protection from the organisation.

“JAMB stressed that having dealt decisively with external fraudsters who seek to exploit candidates and members of the public, it would not shield or spare any of its own staff members who cross the line or abuse the trust reposed in them.”

The Board also cautioned its workforce against actions that could undermine its operations or damage public confidence in its activities.

It said, “The Board once again warned all members of staff to desist from all forms of unwholesome conduct, particularly acts capable of undermining the integrity of the Board or exploiting candidates and members of the public, as such actions would attract severe consequences in accordance with established rules.”

JAMB said it remained committed to building a workforce that upholds accountability and professionalism.

“The Board reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a clean, accountable and professional workforce, stressing that the fight against fraud and misconduct must begin from within if the integrity of its operations is to be fully preserved,” JAMB said.