WAEC Apologises for Late-Night English Exams, Cites Efforts to Stop Malpractice

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has said the delay in administering the 2025 English Language Paper 2 was due to tightened measures aimed at preventing exam malpractice, particularly the leakage of question papers.

First News reported that candidates across the country were left frustrated on Wednesday, May 28, after the English exam, originally scheduled for earlier in the day, began hours late in many centres.

In several locations, the paper did not commence until late at night, forcing students to write in poorly lit classrooms, relying on flashlights and lanterns.

Videos and images from exam centres, some showing students writing past 10pm, sparked outrage online, with many Nigerians criticising the planning and welfare conditions provided for candidates.

Responding in a statement on Thursday, May 29, WAEC said the delay was not intentional but stemmed from its renewed focus on protecting the integrity of the exam.

“While maintaining the integrity and security of our examination, we faced considerable challenges primarily due to our major aim of preventing leakage of any paper.

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“While we successfully achieved our objective, it inadvertently impacted the timeliness and seamless conduct of the examination,” said Moyosola Adesina, WAEC’s Acting Head of Public Affairs.

She explained that several factors, including logistics, security risks, and regional challenges, further contributed to the disruption.

“Despite our best efforts, we encountered logistical hurdles, security concerns and sociocultural factors that negatively influenced our operations,” Adesina stated.

WAEC assured the public it is working closely with security agencies to prevent such delays in the future and pledged to improve operational efficiency during subsequent exams.

“We recognise the importance of timely conduct of examinations and the impact of this decision on the candidates, their schools and parents, and we sincerely apologise for any inconveniences caused,” Adesina added.

The council also thanked schools, parents, and candidates for their patience and understanding, reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence and exam credibility across the region.

The 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates began on April 24 and is expected to conclude on June 20.

 

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