WAEC Responds to Disturbing Examination Incident, Apologizes for Any Embarrassment Caused

A disturbing scene emerged yesterday where some West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) candidates sat in darkness to write the English Language paper.

The situation, which has called for public reaction was shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, by a handler known as #Omolomo, who expressed displeasure over the situation

However, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has tendered an apology for the delays in the conduct of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), particularly for English Language Paper 2, which was taken on Wednesday, May 28..

WAEC apologised to students, parents, and schools for the inconvenience, assuring the public that it is working with security agencies to prevent future disruptions in a statement released by the Council spokesperson, Moyosola Adesina and obtained by TROVE online MEDIA early this morning

He said the delay resulted from logistical setbacks caused by enhanced security measures aimed at curbing question paper leaks. The council also cited other contributing factors, including security concerns and sociocultural challenges

It also acknowledged the disruption experienced during the conduct of Paper 2 of the English Language exam on May 28, which was held hours behind schedule in many centres nationwide, forcing some students to write the paper late into the night.

WAEC explained that while maintaining the integrity and security of the council’s examination, the council faced considerable challenges primarily due to its major aim of preventing leakage of any paper.

However, while it successfully achieved its objective, the exercise inadvertently impacted the timeliness and seamless conduct of the examination.

Despite our best efforts, we encountered logistical hurdles, security concerns, and sociocultural factors that negatively influenced our operations. To prevent future occurrences of this nature, the Council is currently collaborating with security agencies.

“We recognise the importance of the timely conduct of examinations and the impact of this decision on the candidates, their schools and parents, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused,” the statement reads in part.

“We remain committed to upholding the highest standard in the conduct of examinations and shall continue to promote academic excellence,” WAEC stated.

“While we succeeded in safeguarding the examination materials, this inadvertently affected the timeliness and smooth execution of the process,” Adesina stated.

The council reaffirmed its commitment to exam integrity and academic excellence across the region.

The 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination, WASSCE, began on April 24 and is expected to end on June 2025