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WAEC Faces Scrutiny from House Committee Over Midnight Exam Scandal

Published on Jun 3, 2025 • Education

The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies has called for a full investigation into the circumstances that led to the controversial midnight administration of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in parts of Nigeria.

The committee made this demand during an investigative hearing held at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, where the Head of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) in Nigeria, Dr. Amos Dangut, was questioned over the incident.

Background and Parliamentary Concern
The hearing followed a motion moved by Hon. Mary Ibikake (PDP, Bayelsa), which was unanimously adopted by the committee. Chairman of the panel, Hon. Oboku Oforji (PDP, Bayelsa), described the situation as “unacceptable” and emphasized the need for accountability.

“This committee wants to know, and Nigerians deserve to know, what truly happened,” said Hon. Oforji. “Parents were left shocked and confused. We owe them an explanation. Funds were appropriated by this parliament for the smooth conduct of these exams, and that comes with a duty of care.”

He reiterated the committee’s prior demand for clarification, citing widespread public condemnation and concern over WAEC’s handling of the examination.

WAEC Responds: Leaked Papers and Logistical Challenges
In his response, Dr. Dangut issued an unreserved apology to candidates, parents, schools, and the general public. He explained that the irregularities were the result of logistical failures caused by last-minute changes in exam materials.

According to Dangut, a question paper leak forced WAEC to develop and print new versions of the English Language exam. Due to the council’s internal printing press operating at only 50% capacity, external vendors were brought in to assist, inadvertently contributing to the breach.

The subsequent distribution of replacement papers was hampered by difficult terrain and mechanical issues, resulting in some exam centers receiving materials late into the night. As a result, candidates in affected areas were forced to write the exam under poor lighting conditions, using rechargeable lamps, torches, candlelight, and mobile phone flashlights.

Investigation Underway, Legal Action Promised
Dr. Dangut assured the committee that an internal investigation has been launched and that anyone found complicit in the leakage or logistical failure will face legal action. He also stated that WAEC has begun investing in its printing infrastructure to ensure full in-house capacity, aiming to prevent future dependency on third-party printers.

Committee’s Warning and Next Steps
In closing, Hon. Oforji cautioned WAEC to take immediate corrective steps to avoid further embarrassment, describing the event as a serious breach of trust. He emphasized that the committee is not acting punitively but is committed to uncovering the root causes of the failures to prevent recurrence.

The committee has adjourned the matter indefinitely, pending the outcome of WAEC’s internal investigation and any subsequent legal actions.

Public Trust and Examination Integrity at Stake
The incident has triggered a wider conversation about examination integrity, education sector preparedness, and the role of oversight in preventing systemic failures. As one of the most critical assessment bodies in West Africa, WAEC’s ability to maintain credibility and fairness is essential to public confidence in the national education system.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and as WAEC implements promised reforms.