The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has debunked widely circulated claims alleging the kidnapping of 15 candidates en route from Onitsha, Anambra State, to Okigwe, Imo State, for an examination.
In a statement posted on its verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, JAMB clarified that the candidates had arranged private group transportation to Okigwe. During the journey, their vehicle developed a fault in an area with no mobile network coverage, temporarily cutting off communication. This lack of contact led to panic and a viral false report of a kidnapping, particularly shared by a user identified as @uchePokoye.
JAMB confirmed that the candidates have since reconnected with their families and were never in danger. The Board criticised the originator of the misinformation for failing to provide a follow-up or correction after the facts were established.
The statement also raised important questions: Why did the candidates choose to write their exams in Imo State when there are approved centres in Anambra? And what informed the group travel arrangement?
JAMB urges candidates and the general public to rely only on verified information from official sources and to exercise caution when sharing unverified claims online.
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