ICAN Investigates Alleged Exam Impersonation After Viral Video Sparks Outrage

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has launched a full-scale investigation following a viral video that allegedly exposed impersonation during one of its professional examinations.

The controversial video, which has sparked heated debates on social media, showed two individuals—Liveth Felix and Abraham Moses—admitting to invigilators that they were hired to sit for the exams on behalf of registered candidates.

Details of the Viral ICAN Exam Malpractice Video

In the clip, Felix confessed she was impersonating a candidate identified as Sarah Adi, while Moses admitted he was standing in for Martins Emmanuel. Both claimed they were contracted by a man known as Mr. Joshua in Jalingo, Taraba State.

The invigilators who uncovered the impersonation reportedly vowed to escalate the matter to security agencies.

Adding to the controversy, unverified claims circulating online allege that one of the impersonated candidates holds a public office position in Taraba State—an angle that has intensified public interest in the case.

ICAN’s Official Response

Reacting in a statement on Sunday, ICAN Registrar/Chief Executive, Lanre Olasunkanmi, confirmed that the institute has begun a comprehensive probe into the matter.

“The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria has noted a video currently circulating on social media alleging impersonation during one of its examinations. As the foremost professional accountancy body in Nigeria, ICAN wishes to state unequivocally that it maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for all forms of examination malpractice, including impersonation,” the statement read.

Olasunkanmi stressed that ICAN’s examinations are governed by globally accepted standards of integrity, and any attempt to compromise them is treated with utmost seriousness.

Zero Tolerance for Exam Malpractice

The ICAN boss further assured the public that:

• All individuals found guilty will face strict disciplinary measures.

• The findings of the investigation will be made public.

• The institute remains committed to upholding the credibility of its examinations and protecting the reputation of the accounting profession in Nigeria and beyond.

He also appealed to Nigerians not to jump to conclusions, urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims until the investigation is concluded.

Why This Matters

As one of the most respected professional bodies in Nigeria, ICAN’s credibility is built on the integrity of its examinations. Any breach of trust, such as impersonation or malpractice, threatens not only the reputation of the institute but also the value of the ICAN qualification in global practice.

This investigation will be a key test of ICAN’s commitment to maintaining professional excellence and accountability.