Abuja, Nigeria – Nigerian authorities have arrested at least 20 suspects in connection with the alleged hacking of computer servers used for the 2025 Computer-Based Test (CBT) examinations conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). The suspects are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Police Force in Abuja.
Security sources indicate that those arrested are believed to be part of a larger syndicate, potentially comprising over 100 individuals. This group reportedly specialises in infiltrating the computer systems of major examination bodies, including JAMB and the National Examinations Council (NECO).
The suspects have allegedly confessed to deliberately sabotaging the CBT systems. Their stated aim was to discredit JAMB and deter the future use of computer-based examinations for other key bodies like the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and NECO.
One source detailed the sophisticated method used, explaining that the syndicate deployed “specially designed attacking software” to remotely infiltrate and manipulate JAMB servers at targeted CBT centres. This software was reportedly installed on routers covertly placed near these centres to override JAMB’s secure platforms.
This illicit operation allowed “special candidates,” who had allegedly paid significant sums, to receive answers during the examinations. The “ghost software” also distorted exam data, leading to discrepancies between questions displayed and answers recorded, a factor blamed for widespread failures in the 2025 exams.
Beneficiaries of the scheme reportedly paid between ₦700,000 and ₦2 million (approximately $470 to $1,340 USD) for high scores. Investigations have also revealed that several members of the syndicate are proprietors of private schools and tutorial centres, using illicit proceeds to fund their “special centres.”
The arrests were made in coordinated operations across several Nigerian states, including Lagos, Edo, Anambra, Kano, and Delta. The identities of the suspects are being withheld pending their arraignment in court.
Authorities have also clarified that no evidence of complicity has been found against the seven JAMB officials who supervised the service providers at the affected CBT centres, according to another security source.
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