Ejikeme Apologizes for Daughter's UTME Result Manipulation
In the wake of the scandal surrounding his daughter's manipulation of her UTME results, Mr. Romanus Ejikeme has publicly apologized to Nigerians and JAMB. Ejikeme, initially defensive, expressed deep regret over the situation and pleaded for his daughter's forgiveness.
Romanus Ejikeme, father of the student embroiled in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) scandal, has publicly apologised to Nigerians and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) following the revelation of his daughter’s academic fraud.
Subject Mr. Romanus Ejikeme, father of Mmesoma
Incident Mmesoma’s manipulation of her UTME score
Stakeholder Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)
Response Public apology to Nigerians and JAMB
Ramification Ejikeme admitted to not knowing his daughter lied to him
Investigation Ongoing – public sentiment continues to evolve
Outcome Former supporters of Mmesoma have retracted their initial stance
Implication Public disgrace and calls for Mmesoma to face the consequences of her actions
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A Father’s Regret
Ejikeme, who previously accused JAMB of discrimination and had threatened legal action, admitted he had been deceived by his daughter’s fraudulent claims. He revealed his regret and remorse during an interview with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). “When I realised what she did, it was too late. I regretted all my earlier actions on this matter. I apologise to Nigerians and JAMB. I still beg JAMB and Nigerians to pardon her,” he implored.
Turning Tides of Public Support
Daily Trust reports that several Nigerians who initially backed Mmesoma have since reversed their position. Among them, a former Minister of Education, Dr Oby Ezekwesili, despite her earlier insistence on an independent technology investigation by JAMB, has expressed satisfaction with the investigative process and findings by the committee appointed by Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State.
Dr Ezekwesili, sharing her stance on Twitter, acknowledged the importance of Mmesoma’s fair hearing and the independent evidence that confirmed Mmesoma’s fraudulent actions. Her tweet stated, in part, “It was necessary to have independent evidence that the result Mmesoma laid claim to publicly was not only fake but that the forgery was personally orchestrated by her.”
Voices of Disappointment
Fred Chukwuelobe, a Facebook user, expressed his disappointment and apologised to his friends for giving Mmesoma the benefit of the doubt. He strongly recommended Mmesoma seek a psychological evaluation, apologise to JAMB, and face the consequences of her actions, echoing the committee’s recommendations.
Modestus Chukwulaka, another Facebook user, admitted his disappointment, emphasising that the public had acted in good faith and that the situation should serve as a learning experience for all. He urged Mmesoma to demonstrate remorse and apologise unreservedly to Nigerians, especially JAMB.
Public Sentiment and a Call for Consequences
The public’s initial support for Mmesoma has notably diminished following the revelations. Bethrand Chukulobi expressed his disappointment over Mmesoma’s deceit, while also criticising her for the embarrassment she caused her school and state. Ebony Blossom, echoing similar sentiments, lamented her initial belief in Mmesoma’s innocence.
