The House of Representatives has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to appear before it for questioning over widespread complaints and irregularities during the ongoing 2025 examinations.
This urgent call was made by Oboku Abonsizibe Oforji, Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies, in response to public outrage over the unusual conduct of the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
Oforji explained that WAEC was invited on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, to clarify various issues disrupting the exams across Nigeria. However, WAEC failed to appear at the scheduled hearing on Thursday, May 29, an absence Oforji described as unacceptable.
He stated, “The examination has been riddled with serious irregularities. We’ve received reports of students writing exams as late as midnight in some centers across the country. The House felt it necessary to summon WAEC to explain these developments and the trauma candidates are currently facing.”
Oforji continued, “WAEC responded this morning, citing their involvement in the ongoing exams as the reason for their absence. Ironically, this is exactly why we need them here—to address these concerns. Our aim is not to witch-hunt WAEC but to provide answers that will ease public tension and prevent a recurrence of these issues. WAEC has conducted exams for decades, and we have never witnessed this level of disorganization.”
He added, “Something is clearly wrong, and it must be addressed. The Committee has therefore resolved that WAEC must appear unfailingly on Friday, May 30, 2025, or face legislative sanctions in line with the powers vested in us by the Constitution.”
Meanwhile, WAEC, through a statement by Moyosola Adesina, Acting Head of Public Affairs, admitted to operational challenges that disrupted the timely distribution of exam materials. The statement read:
“While maintaining the integrity and security of our examinations, we faced considerable challenges, primarily in our efforts to prevent paper leaks. We acknowledge the importance of conducting examinations on time and deeply regret any inconvenience caused to candidates, schools, and parents.”
WAEC further explained that logistical issues, security concerns, and socio-cultural factors contributed to the delays, despite their best efforts.
Amos Dangut, Head of the Nigeria National Office of WAEC, also provided insight during an interview on Channels TV. He revealed that the Wednesday exam paper was at risk of being compromised, leading WAEC to take swift action to prevent a leak, which resulted in candidates sitting for the WASSCE at night.
This development has sparked nationwide outrage, with videos circulating of students in Taraba State and Ogun State writing exams late into the night, using candles to illuminate their scripts. Nigerians have expressed deep disappointment over the conduct of WAEC, especially the situation where students were forced to write exams past midnight.
Stay tuned to Alayo Radio TV for further updates on this developing story.