The Innoson Automobile Company, a Nigerian automobile manufacturer, has withdrawn the scholarship it offered to Mmesoma Ejikeme following the confirmation by the Commission of Inquiry established by the Anambra State Government that she manipulated her Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) result.
This information was disclosed by Cornel Osigwe, the Head of Corporate Communications and Affairs at Innoson Group, on Saturday.
According to reports, the eight-page report from the panel recommended that Mmesoma issue an unreserved written apology to the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), her school (Anglican Girls’ Secondary School, Uruagu Nnewi), and the state government.
Additionally, the report advised that she undergo psychological counseling and therapy.
Osigwe mentioned that Innoson Automobile Company had been involved in the investigation process concerning the allegations surrounding Mmesoma Ejikeme’s 2023 UTME examination results.
He added that subsequent reports of discrepancies in her UTME score led the company to seek clarification from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board and to allow her to voice her stance with a committee set up by the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Charles Chukwuma Soludo.
“In line with these principles and in response to the confirmed findings, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw the scholarship awarded to Miss Joy Mmesoma Ejikeme. This action is a testament to our unyielding commitment to honesty, integrity, and merit-based recognition.
“We acknowledge that this development is regrettable, and it has undoubtedly caused dismay among those who stood by Miss Joy including her school principal and other well-meaning supporters. However, it is crucial to maintain the integrity of our scholarship program and the values it represents,” he said.
IVM (Innoson Automobile Company) further emphasized its commitment to recognizing and rewarding outstanding students who not only exhibit academic excellence but also embody the principles of honesty, transparency, and respect for the educational system’s processes in Nigeria.
