The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed as unfounded recent rumours questioning the safety of examination centres in a North Central state ahead of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations scheduled to begin on April 16, 2026.
Force PRO, DCP Anthony Placid, disclosed the development following a press briefing with JAMB officials at the Force Headquarters on Tuesday.
TheFact Daily notes that security concerns around exams in parts of northern Nigeria are not entirely new. Over the past decade, regions in the North-East and parts of the North-West and North-Central have experienced varying levels of insecurity linked to insurgency, banditry, and communal violence. Because the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board exams involve large movements of students to designated CBT centres—sometimes across towns—any rumour of insecurity tends to spread quickly and heighten fear. Social media has amplified this effect in recent years, with unverified claims often triggering panic.
While noting public concerns, the Force assured that comprehensive measures have been put in place to safeguard candidates.
According to the NPF, enhanced security has been deployed across examination centres nationwide, both visibly and covertly. These include routine patrols, perimeter surveillance, and strategically positioned rapid response teams to prevent any disruption during the exams.
The Force also confirmed ongoing collaboration with other security agencies to monitor and neutralise potential threats. It warned that any individual or group attempting to interfere with the examination process would be promptly apprehended and prosecuted.
Reassuring candidates, parents, and the general public, the Police stated that all necessary steps have been taken to ensure a safe and conducive environment. Candidates are advised to arrive early, comply with examination guidelines, and promptly report suspicious activities to security personnel on ground.
The NPF urged the public to disregard unverified information, particularly on social media, and rely only on official updates from relevant authorities. It reiterated its commitment to maintaining security and public confidence throughout the examination period and other national activities.
