Fides Media Living the Faith
By Ikeugonna Eleke
Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing (IVM) an indigenous vehicle manufacturing company, has withdrawn its scholarship from Miss Mmesoma Ejikeme, a student of Anglican Girls’ Secondary School, Nnewi, who has been involved in controversy with JAMB over her result.
A panel set up by Anambra State Government to look into the controversy had on Saturday morning, July 8, released its report, stating that the student forged her result.
The CEO of IVM, Mr Innocent Chukwuma, had previously awarded the student a scholarship to the tune of N3million for coming tops in JAMB.
A press release by the company’s Head of Corporate Communications & Affairs, Mr Cornel Osigwe, same Saturday, said the scholarship had been withdrawn.
‘In recent days, we have been involved in the process of investigating allegations surrounding the 2023 UTME results of one of our scholarship recipients, Miss Joy Mmesoma Ejikeme.
‘The findings from this rigorous investigation have now confirmed that Miss Joy Mmesoma Ejikeme did manipulate her UTME results. This conclusion is deeply disappointing and stands in direct contravention of the values we hold dear at Innoson Vehicles, particularly those that underscore our scholarship programme.
‘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 testament to our unyielding commitment to honesty, integrity, and merit-based recognition.
‘We extend our appreciation to the public, JAMB, the Anambra State Governor’s Committee, and all those who have shown understanding and support during this challenging situation. We remain committed to fostering educational excellence in Nigeria,’ Innoson assured.
The company described the development as regrettable, noting that it had undoubtedly caused dismay among those who stood by the student, including her school principal and other well-meaning supporters.
He said: ‘It is crucial to maintain the integrity of our scholarship programme and the values it represents.
‘Innoson remains steadfast in its mission to support deserving students, invest in the future of our education sector, and uphold the highest ethical standards. We have always been deeply committed to advancing educational excellence and upholding academic integrity through our scholarship programme.
‘We believe in rewarding exceptional students who display not just academic prowess, but also embody the values of honesty, transparency, and respect for the processes that govern our educational system,’ the company stated.