By Aisha Muhammad Magaji
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has launched an investigation into alleged malpractice during its recent professional examinations, amid claims involving a Taraba State government official. The matter has attracted significant attention, raising concerns about the integrity of professional examinations in the country.
Reports emerged suggesting that a senior government official in Taraba State might have engaged in impersonation during the ICAN exams. Social media and some online platforms circulated claims linking the Taraba Commissioner for Finance to the alleged misconduct.
ICAN, however, has clarified that the probe is routine and that no conclusions have been drawn yet. The professional body stressed its commitment to maintaining the credibility of its examinations and ensuring that all candidates are treated fairly and transparently.
In a statement released on Thursday, ICAN said:
“We are aware of circulating reports regarding alleged malpractice in our recent examinations. We take these allegations seriously and have commenced a thorough investigation. ICAN will ensure due process is followed, and no assumptions or prejudgments will influence the outcome.”
The body also reminded the public that its examination processes include biometric verification, photograph capture, and strict supervision to safeguard against impersonation or other forms of malpractice.
The Taraba State Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Ibrahim Suleiman, has categorically denied any involvement in exam malpractice. Speaking to journalists in Jalingo, he said:
“I wish to state unequivocally that I did not, and will never, engage in impersonation or any form of malpractice during ICAN examinations. These allegations are baseless and appear to be politically or personally motivated.”
Dr. Suleiman added that he has full confidence in ICAN’s investigative processes and welcomes any review to clear his name. “I respect ICAN as a reputable professional body and am confident that the investigation will vindicate me,” he said.
Exam malpractice has long been a challenge in Nigeria’s professional and academic sectors. Instances of impersonation, leaking of questions, and cheating have prompted several regulatory bodies, including ICAN, the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), and the Nigerian Law School, to adopt more stringent security measures.
According to ICAN data, the institute has conducted over 500,000 examinations over the past decade. Out of these, less than 0.5% involved confirmed cases of malpractice, reflecting the body’s rigorous monitoring and enforcement protocols.
Members of the public and professional accountants have reacted cautiously, emphasizing the need for transparency and due process.
“ICAN must ensure its investigations are transparent and fair, especially when high-profile individuals are involved,” said Chika Okeke, a senior chartered accountant based in Lagos. “We cannot compromise the integrity of our profession for political or social reasons.”
Civil society organizations have also urged restraint in public commentary until ICAN completes its probe. Premature conclusions, they argue, can harm reputations and undermine public trust in professional institutions.
The institute reiterated its zero-tolerance stance toward malpractice, promising stricter monitoring in future examinations. Plans are underway to enhance candidate verification procedures, strengthen exam security, and deploy digital solutions to reduce the risk of impersonation.
“We are continuously improving our examination processes to ensure fairness, credibility, and professionalism,” ICAN’s statement noted.
ICAN has convened a special panel to review the allegations and gather evidence, including biometric data, attendance records, and invigilator reports. The findings will be communicated to the public once the investigation is concluded.
Meanwhile, the Taraba Commissioner maintains his innocence and has urged media outlets to refrain from speculation. “I urge the press and the public to await the official outcome before making judgments,” Dr. Suleiman said.
The investigation underscores ICAN’s commitment to professional integrity and its proactive stance against malpractice. While allegations have created a stir, due process remains the cornerstone of resolving the matter. The final report, expected in the coming weeks, will determine whether any corrective or disciplinary measures are necessary.
