Recent reports indicate a significant cybersecurity breach affecting the integrity of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), administered by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). AIT reports that the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Police Force have apprehended at least 20 individuals suspected of involvement in hacking the computer-based test (CBT) system.

The suspects, allegedly part of a larger syndicate of over 100 individuals, reportedly confessed to installing malicious software on JAMB’s hardware to remotely manipulate examination scores. Their objective, according to security sources, was to discredit the CBT format and discourage future adoption by other examination bodies. The illicit activity involved influencing scores for candidates who paid substantial sums, ranging from N700,000 to N2 million.

Preliminary investigations suggest that several suspects are proprietors of private schools and colleges, profiting significantly from these illicit activities within designated “special centers.” These arrests highlight the escalating threat of cybersecurity vulnerabilities within national examination systems and underscore the need for enhanced security protocols and continuous monitoring to safeguard the integrity of educational assessments. Further investigations are ongoing.

Nollywood actress Ekene Umenwa recently revealed experiencing pressure early in her career to compromise her Christian faith in exchange for professional advancement. In a Wednesday Instagram post, the “Black Choir” star recounted being advised by unnamed individuals to abandon her religious beliefs for success within the industry.

Umenwa affirmed her resolute refusal to yield to these pressures, choosing instead to find strength and guidance in her faith. She shared a video set to the gospel song “No Turning Back,” emphasizing her unwavering commitment to her beliefs despite the challenges.

Umenwa’s disclosure highlights potential ethical dilemmas faced by individuals navigating the complexities of the Nigerian film industry. Her story resonates with themes of integrity and the importance of adhering to personal values amidst external pressures.

American R&B artist Chris Brown has been released on bail in the UK, pending a future court appearance related to an alleged assault. The Southwark Crown Court granted Mr. Brown bail upon the condition of a £5 million guarantee.

Under the terms stipulated by Judge Tony Baumgartner, Mr. Brown is permitted to continue his scheduled international tour, commencing June 8 in Amsterdam. However, the bail conditions require his return to the UK for a series of concerts beginning June 15, failing which the £5 million will be forfeited. Additionally, he must surrender his passport when not traveling, reside at a court-approved address, and refrain from visiting the location of the alleged incident or contacting the alleged victim, Abraham Diah.

Mr. Brown and a co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, face charges of grievous bodily harm with intent. They are scheduled to appear in court again on June 20.