The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has terminated the appointment of a staff member found to have extorted candidates.
JAMB disclosed the decision in its bulletin on Monday, September 21, saying the action formed part of renewed efforts to tackle fraud and misconduct within the examination and admission system.nThe Board said its campaign against fraudulent practices would apply not only to external offenders but also to employees who abuse their positions.
“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,” JAMB stated.
The examination body did not identify the dismissed employee or provide details about the circumstances of the extortion in the statement. JAMB also warned other employees against conduct that could undermine the organisation’s integrity or result in the exploitation of candidates and members of the public.
“Accordingly, 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,” it said.
According to JAMB, the disciplinary measures it has applied against people accused of fraudulent activities outside the organisation will also be used to address misconduct by its employees. The Board described the dismissal as a “clear and unequivocal message” that its zero-tolerance policy on corruption and misconduct applies to employees regardless of their status or position.
“The Board 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.”
JAMB said employees found engaging in activities capable of compromising its operations would face sanctions in accordance with established rules. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining what it described as a clean, accountable and professional workforce, adding that efforts to combat fraud and misconduct must also address wrongdoing within the organisation.