Rumours of security threats at examination centres in a North Central state have been dismissed by the Nigeria Police Force, even as the force confirms that rapid response teams, routine patrols and perimeter checks are already active at centres nationwide ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, in a statement dated Tuesday, April 14, acknowledged public concerns but was unequivocal in his position. “The Nigeria Police Force wishes to state that these claims are without basis categorically. While the NPF does not act on rumours, the concerns raised by members of the public have been duly noted as it concerns the safety, education and future of our children and wards,” the statement noted.
Placid confirmed that security coverage spans the entire country, with both visible and undercover deployments in place. “To this end, 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 stated.
The force is coordinating with other security agencies and has issued a firm warning to potential disruptors. “Any individual or group attempting to disrupt the examination process will be swiftly identified and brought to justice,” Placid affirmed.
Candidates were directed to arrive early at their designated centres, comply with examination regulations and report any suspicious persons or activity to security personnel on site. The public was equally cautioned against circulating unverified information on social media, with the force urging reliance on official communications from the Nigeria Police Force and JAMB.
In Anambra State, the state police command announced a separate but complementary deployment of 60 Safe School Operatives across designated centres for the duration of the examination. State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed in Awka that the operatives would be coordinated from bases across the eight Police Area Commands in the state, under the supervision of Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, ACP Harrison Oruruo.
Ikenga noted that the deployment falls under the Safe School Initiative, aimed at protecting candidates, invigilators and examination officials from malpractice, disruption and security breaches. Candidates and stakeholders were urged to remain law abiding and cooperate fully with deployed personnel throughout the exercise.
Last Updated on April 15, 2026 by Ola Funmilayo
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