LAGOS, Nigeria — The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has dismissed as fake a document circulating on social media claiming that the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results of 50 schools were withheld over alleged examination malpractice.
The examination body described the document as false and misleading, stating that it did not originate from WAEC and should be disregarded by candidates, parents, schools and the general public. According to the Council, the viral list was fabricated to spread misinformation and create unnecessary anxiety among affected stakeholders.
WAEC stressed that it has not released any official list identifying schools whose results were withheld in connection with the 2026 WASSCE. The Council advised members of the public to rely solely on information published through its official communication channels and verified platforms.
The Council explained that whenever decisions are taken regarding examination malpractice or the withholding of results, affected candidates and schools are notified through established procedures. It warned that unofficial documents circulating online should not be regarded as authentic unless they are issued directly by WAEC.
WAEC also urged candidates to verify any information relating to their examination results through the Council’s official website and accredited communication platforms. It cautioned against sharing or relying on unverified social media posts capable of causing confusion and damaging the reputation of schools and candidates.
The examination body reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity and credibility of the WASSCE while ensuring that all reported cases of examination malpractice are investigated thoroughly and handled in accordance with its established rules and regulations.
WAEC further appealed to the public to assist in combating the spread of false information by confirming the authenticity of any examination-related announcement before sharing it online. The Council noted that misinformation can undermine public confidence in the examination process and create unnecessary panic among candidates awaiting their results.
The Council assured candidates that it remains committed to conducting credible examinations and releasing results in a transparent and fair manner. It reiterated that official updates concerning the 2026 WASSCE and other examinations will continue to be communicated through its recognised channels.
WAEC encouraged schools, parents and candidates to remain calm and ignore the fake list circulating online, stressing that only official statements issued by the Council should be regarded as authentic.
