2026 UTME: Police dismiss threat rumours, vow to prosecute exam disruptors

The Nigeria Police Force has deployed rapid response teams across examination centres nationwide ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, dismissing circulating rumours about threats to candidates’ safety as unfounded.

Force Public Relations Officer Anthony Placid, in a statement on Tuesday, said the police were aware of rumours concerning the safety of some centres in a North Central state but stressed that the claims had no basis.

“The Nigeria Police Force wishes to categorically state that these claims are without basis,” he said, adding that public concerns had nonetheless been noted “as it concerns the safety, education and future of our children and wards.”

Placid said the force had taken proactive measures to secure all examination centres ahead of the UTME, scheduled to run from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, April 25, 2026.

“Extra security has been deployed at examination centres nationwide, both overtly and covertly, to prevent any untoward incidents. This includes routine patrols, perimeter checks, and rapid response teams stationed at strategic locations,” he said.

The police spokesperson added that the force was collaborating with other security agencies to monitor and respond to potential threats, warning that anyone attempting to disrupt the examination process would be “swiftly identified and brought to justice.”

Placid urged candidates to arrive early at their centres, comply with examination regulations, and report any suspicious activity to on-site security personnel. He also cautioned the public against spreading unverified information on social media, advising reliance on official updates from the police and JAMB.

“The Force remains committed to maintaining peace, security, and public confidence in all national activities, including the JAMB examinations,” he said.