Innoson Vehicles has revoked the N3 million scholarship it had given to Mmesoma Ejikeme following the end of an investigation into an accusation of results fabrication against the troubled UTME candidate.
Ejikeme claimed to have received a score of 362, which would have placed her among the top candidates for the year.
Mr. Innocent Chukwuma, the creator of the car company with headquarters in Nnewi, Anambra, announced the scholarship on May 8 to commemorate the alleged accomplishment.
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But on Monday, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) fiercely denied Ejikeme’s assertion, asserting that her results had been rigged. The Anambra State Government responded by forming an inquiry committee.
The highly anticipated findings of the panel were made public in an eight-page report on Friday, which confirmed that Ejikeme manipulated her result, giving herself a score of 362 as against an actual score of 249.
Innoson Group promptly rescinded its scholarship offer to the 19-year-old on Saturday, in a series of tweets signed by its Head of Corporate Communications and Affairs, Cornel Osigwe.
The auto manufacturer admitted that the findings were deeply disappointing and that Ejikeme’s actions stood in direct contravention of the values the company held dear.
“In line with these principles and response to the confirmed findings, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw the scholarship awarded to Miss Joy Mmesoma Ejikeme,” it said.
“This action is a testament to our unyielding commitment to honesty, integrity, and merit-based recognition.”
The firm described the development as regrettable, adding that it had “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,” the statement noted.
Innoson further stated that it remained steadfast in its mission to support deserving students, invest in the future of our education sector, and uphold the highest ethical standards.
“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,” it said.
