The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) says a blind candidate hired another visually impaired person to sit the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) on his behalf.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Ishaq Oloyede, JAMB registrar, provided updates on the conduct and outcome of the 2025 UTME.

Oloyede said the incident occurred during the examination of blind candidates under the JAMB Equal Opportunity Group (JEOG), which facilitates inclusive testing for candidates with disabilities.

He said a total of 501 visually impaired candidates were successfully examined at 11 centres nationwide.

 

“Sadly, one of them was also involved in impersonation by recruiting an undergraduate student who is also blind to come and write for another blind candidate,” he said.

The registrar expressed disappointment over the development, noting that it shows desperation for access to tertiary education.

He said JAMB refunds the registration fees of blind and other challenged candidates and covers transportation, accommodation, and feeding during the examination period.

He reiterated the board’s commitment to supporting candidates with special needs.

“The board remains committed to providing the necessary support for persons with disabilities aspiring to pursue tertiary education,” Oloyede said.

“The Prof. Peter Okebukola-led JEOG continues to demonstrate exceptional dedication in ensuring that these candidates are able to sit examinations, regardless of their challenges.”