Police rescue 15 missing UTME candidates in Imo

The Imo State Police Command has confirmed that the 15 students who were earlier declared missing on their way to write the rescheduled Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in Okigwe have been found and safely reunited with their families.

The students had reportedly travelled from Onitsha, Anambra State, to Okigwe, Imo State, for the examination but were declared missing, sparking public concern.

In a post shared on the command’s official X handle, the police assured the public that the students were located following swift efforts by security operatives and concerned stakeholders.

Authorities thanked the public for their support and vigilance, and reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors in the state.

The command wrote: “It is true that they made the travel to Okigwe, where they were scheduled to write the UTME. However, their vehicle developed a mechanical fault while at it, but they were secured and have now been returned with their families.

“We appreciate citizens and stakeholders, such as yourself, who raise awareness concerning issues of security. We encourage the spirit.”

Also, House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has urged the Joint Admission and Matriculations Board (JAMB) to carry out an independent and transparent audit of its examination infrastructure.

Addressing reporters in Abuja on the glitches that hampered this year’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), Kalu faulted what he called the hurried rescheduling of the examination at a time many students were writing the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examinations (SSCE) which required some of them to travel far distances to write the examination.

According to him, it is only by triangulating internal findings with external audits that Nigerians can ensure that no affected candidate is left behind.

Kalu also urged JAMB to safeguard the educational path of the affected candidates from the Southeast and Lagos, saying they should not be made to face further stress, having borne the brunt of the glitches.

He said: “JAMB must provide a clear, accessible mechanism for remark and appeal, especially for those dissatisfied with the hurried retake or who experienced technical difficulties during the second sitting.

“Furthermore, coordination with WAEC and other examination bodies must continue to ensure that no candidate’s academic progression is impeded by scheduling conflicts.”

(Nation)