WAEC scandal deepens: Leaked English paper and fake cancellation spark outrage across Nigeria

DDM News

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Nigeria, has officially dismissed circulating reports that the 2025 English Language examination of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) has been cancelled.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, WAEC described the information as entirely false and the handiwork of mischief-makers.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the fake press release, dated Friday, May 30, 2025, had claimed that the English Language paper written on May 28 was cancelled and that a new date would be announced.

WAEC, however, reiterated that it never released such information and that the said examination remains valid.

“The press release did not emanate from WAEC,” stated Moyosola Adesina, the Acting Head of Public Affairs for WAEC Nigeria.

According to Adesina, all official communication from the Council is disseminated through verified platforms and accredited media outlets.

WAEC described the viral press release as “fabricated” and intended to stir confusion among candidates, schools, and parents.

The Council also revealed that it is currently unaware of the source of the misleading document.

“The falsehood is being spread by individuals with the aim of discrediting WAEC and causing panic,” the Council stated.

WAEC urged all candidates, guardians, and institutions to disregard any information that is not confirmed through its official channels.

“All valid announcements are published on WAEC’s verified social media pages and through recognised media houses,” Adesina emphasized.

The Council reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and integrity, assuring that it would continue to protect the sanctity of its examinations.

WAEC further thanked stakeholders for their continued trust and cooperation over its 73-year history.

“We appreciate the confidence reposed in us and remain committed to delivering quality assessment services to Nigerian students,” the statement concluded.

Meanwhile, the controversy may have been fuelled by irregularities observed on the day of the exam.

Reports had earlier surfaced that the May 28 English Language paper commenced several hours behind schedule.

Candidates in multiple locations reportedly sat for the paper late into the night, which sparked speculation about a possible cancellation or rescheduling.

WAEC acknowledged the delay, attributing it to heightened security protocols meant to curb examination malpractice.

The body explained that it intensified efforts to prevent the leakage of question papers, which led to a delay in the distribution and administration of the paper.

Investigations have also begun into reports suggesting that the English Language paper was leaked and circulated online days before the exam.

According to multiple sources, some WAEC officials may be implicated in the leak.

This development raises concerns about internal integrity and the Council’s ability to uphold examination standards under growing digital threats.

The incident is the latest in a series of examination integrity challenges facing WAEC in recent years.

WAEC has continued to battle both digital exam fraud and logistical difficulties during major national assessments.

Education stakeholders are now calling on the examination body to modernise its procedures and tighten internal controls.

Some have suggested adopting fully computer-based examinations or deploying secure online platforms for exam delivery.

Others believe public education and stricter enforcement of penalties against malpractice will help restore public confidence.

WAEC, which has operated since 1952, remains the key body responsible for secondary school certification in Anglophone West Africa.

It conducts the WASSCE across Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia.

In Nigeria, WAEC plays a critical role in assessing over 1.5 million candidates annually for university and job entry.

In recent years, the Council has digitised several of its services, including registration, result checking, and verification.

Despite these steps, incidents like the 2025 English paper leakage point to ongoing systemic vulnerabilities.

The Ministry of Education is expected to review WAEC’s report on the incident and may recommend institutional reforms.

Meanwhile, candidates who sat for the 2025 WASSCE English Language paper are advised to remain calm and await the official release of results.

WAEC has assured all stakeholders that no results will be compromised due to the misinformation or logistical delays.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) will continue to monitor developments on the issue and provide updates as they unfold.

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