LAGOS, NIGERIA — Workers of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) have launched a nationwide protest over alleged victimisation, impunity, and unfair labour practices within the organisation.
The protest, which reportedly began in Lagos and other parts of the country, is expected to last for three days as aggrieved workers demand urgent intervention from relevant authorities.
Demonstrators were seen carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs while accusing the management of policies they described as oppressive and discriminatory.
The protesting workers alleged that some staff members had been unfairly targeted, intimidated, and denied favourable working conditions.
Union representatives claimed the protest became necessary after repeated complaints and grievances failed to receive adequate attention from management.
The workers also accused the examination body of alleged violations of labour rights and administrative procedures affecting employees nationwide.
The development created tension around some WAEC offices as workers gathered to express dissatisfaction with what they termed poor treatment and workplace injustice.
Observers said the protest could affect administrative operations within the council if the dispute remains unresolved.
WAEC remains one of the most important educational institutions in West Africa, responsible for conducting examinations and issuing certificates to millions of students across the region.
The council plays a central role in secondary school education and university admissions within Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
Education stakeholders expressed concern over the industrial unrest, warning that prolonged disputes within the examination body could disrupt critical academic activities.
Some workers alleged that management decisions had created fear and uncertainty among employees, affecting morale and productivity.
The protesters demanded transparency, fairness, and improved welfare conditions for staff members across all WAEC offices.
Labour activists who joined the protest called on the Federal Government and relevant labour agencies to investigate the allegations raised by the workers.
They insisted that employees should not face victimisation for expressing concerns about workplace conditions and institutional policies.
The protest also reignited broader conversations about labour rights, staff welfare, and industrial relations within public institutions in Nigeria.
Analysts say disputes involving educational agencies often generate national attention because of their direct impact on students and academic systems.
Meanwhile, parents and students are closely monitoring the situation amid fears that prolonged unrest could affect examination-related activities.
The workers vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations until their grievances are addressed and meaningful dialogue begins with management.
Attention now shifts to possible negotiations between WAEC management and labour representatives as efforts intensify to prevent further escalation of the dispute.
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