The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to appear before it on Friday, May 30, 2025, over widespread concerns surrounding the ongoing Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
The directive was given by Committee Chairman, Hon. Oboku Abonsizibe Oforji, on Thursday, following WAEC’s failure to honour a previous summons by the Committee.
WAEC Under Scrutiny for Exam Irregularities
Oforji said WAEC was invited to provide explanations for the numerous complaints and reported irregularities affecting this year’s SSCE. He expressed deep disappointment at the Council’s absence at a hearing scheduled for Thursday, May 29, describing it as unacceptable amid growing public anxiety.
“The examinations have been plagued by serious irregularities. Reports indicate that students were still writing exams as late as midnight at some centres across the country,” Oforji stated.
He emphasized that WAEC’s excuse for non-appearance—that its officials were busy overseeing the exams—was exactly why the Council needed to be present to address the crisis.
House Threatens Legislative Sanctions
The Committee had originally invited WAEC on Tuesday, May 27, to provide clarity on issues disrupting the nationwide conduct of the SSCE. Oforji stressed that the Committee expects WAEC to appear without fail on Friday, warning that failure to do so would result in the House invoking its constitutional powers to compel compliance.
“Our aim is not to target WAEC but to get answers that will restore public trust and ensure students don’t suffer such disorganization again. WAEC has conducted exams for decades, but we have never seen this level of chaos,” he said.
“Clearly, something is broken and must be fixed. WAEC must appear on May 30 or face legislative consequences.”
The House’s firm stance comes amid mounting pressure from parents, students, and education stakeholders demanding accountability over delays, security concerns, and reports of malpractice during the ongoing SSCE.
