The Imo State Police Command has confirmed that the 15 students who were reported missing en route from Onitsha, Anambra State, to Okigwe, Imo State, for a rescheduled Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) have been found and safely reunited with their families.
In a post shared on the command’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the police explained that the students’ vehicle broke down due to a mechanical fault during their trip. However, they were quickly secured and returned home without harm.
“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,” the command stated. “We appreciate citizens and stakeholders who raise awareness concerning issues of security. We encourage the spirit.”
Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to conduct an independent and transparent audit of its examination processes.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Kalu criticized the timing and execution of the UTME rescheduling, particularly as it coincided with the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examinations (SSCE), causing logistical strain for many students who had to travel long distances.
“It is only by triangulating internal findings with external audits that Nigerians can ensure that no affected candidate is left behind,” Kalu said.
He urged JAMB to take special steps to protect the academic future of candidates, especially those from the Southeast and Lagos, who were significantly affected by technical glitches during the UTME.
“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,” he added.
