NSCDC To Prosecute 36 Over Exams Malpractices

The Rivers State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), says it is set to prosecute about 36 candidates caught in exams  malpractices at the recently concluded NECO Examinations in the State.

Speaking with journalists shortly after one-day talk shop and seminar organised by the security agency in Port Harcourt on Monday for the suspects State NSCDC Commandant, Mr. Elisha Danjuma  said that the body has the power to investigate  exam malpractice cases and prosecute those found wanting.

The agency said it would not commence  the prosecution, until first time offenders would be given the opportunity to turn a new leaf, adding however prosecution cannot solve the problem in totality”.

Mr. Daijuma noted that, “security is not about making arrests and force but a continues dialogue with the people”

The Rivers NSCDC boss while decrying the effect of examination malpractice on national development, examination bodies, students including the security agents  should be blamed for the surging level of exams malpractice over the years.

He noted that the menace was fast ending the quality of certificate issued to candidates by exams bodies, pointing out that the development has resulted, in foreign countries not valuing the country’s educational products.

The NSCDC Head  of Legal Unit in Rivers State Barrister Linda Esoh has warned perpetrators of exams malpractice to desist from partaking in such offence or face the full wrath of the law.

At the one-day talk shop and training for the 36 suspects in exams malpractice by the security agency, Barrister Esoh stated that three years, imprisonment await  convicts of exam malpractices as prescribed by law. 

But suspect who are below  18 years of age on conviction would pay a fine of N100,000 or spend three years behind bars, according to Examination Malpractice Act of 1999.

The law also prescribes a fine and three years jail term for adults above 18 years even as exam supervisors are expected to serve four years jail term with no alternative of fine.