WAEC Accuses Schools, Supervisors of Extorting Candidates, Warns of Severe Sanctions

By Emmanuel Kwada

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has raised serious concerns over the growing practice of extorting candidates sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), accusing some schools and examination supervisors of imposing illegal charges on students under various pretexts.

In a statement released on Monday, the examination body condemned the collection of unauthorized fees from candidates, describing the practice as unethical, exploitative, and capable of undermining the credibility of one of West Africa’s most important secondary school examinations.

According to WAEC, reports reaching the council indicate that some schools and examination officials have been compelling candidates to pay additional levies for services ranging from the transportation of examination materials to welfare packages and so-called “cooperation fees.”

The council expressed particular concern over reports that some schools were demanding payment for KAPEK scientific calculators that had already been supplied free of charge by WAEC.

“WAEC has noted cases where schools demand payment for KAPEK calculators already provided by the Council at no cost to candidates. WAEC condemns these practices as illegal, unethical and a direct threat to the integrity of the WASSCE,” the council stated.

The examination body warned that any school, supervisor, or official found engaging in such activities would face strict disciplinary measures.

These sanctions, WAEC said, could include the derecognition of examination centres, blacklisting of schools and individuals, criminal prosecution, and referral to appropriate authorities for further disciplinary action.

The latest warning comes amid operational difficulties experienced during the ongoing WASSCE examinations across parts of the country.

WAEC recently disclosed that some examination papers were delayed due to security concerns and logistical setbacks affecting the transportation of sensitive examination materials.

The council revealed that three staff members transporting confidential examination materials across state boundaries lost their lives in a tragic road accident.

“Three of our dedicated personnel who were transporting sensitive examination materials interstate lost their lives in the tragic crash,” the examination body stated.

WAEC described the incident as a significant loss and extended condolences to the families of the deceased officials.

The council also cited insecurity and protests linked to the abduction of schoolchildren in some parts of the country as factors that disrupted the timely distribution of examination materials.

Despite the challenges, WAEC said emergency measures were immediately activated to ensure that examinations proceeded as scheduled in affected areas.