The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has rejected allegations of withholding a candidate’s result without due process, following a viral report featuring a distressed mother pleading with the council to release her son’s 2023 WASSCE result. The mother alleged that the prolonged delay had pushed her son into depression, preventing him from gaining admission into a tertiary institution.
In a press statement signed by the Acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, WAEC expressed concern over the publication and clarified that results are only withheld when there is a formal report of examination malpractice or irregularities during an exam session. The council emphasized that it does not withhold candidate results arbitrarily and that affected candidates are officially informed of allegations and provided avenues for redress.
According to WAEC, when a report on acts of examination malpractice is received, the results of affected candidates are withheld pending investigations. The candidates are then notified of the allegations and advised to make their representations via the WAEC Notice of Examinations Malpractice portal. This process is publicly communicated through WAEC press releases, social media platforms, and examination materials provided to candidates and schools.
WAEC assured stakeholders that every malpractice allegation is handled according to established rules and regulations. The council affirmed its commitment to fairness and legality, stating that it follows due process in all its activities. Despite the council’s clarification, several educationists and parents continue to call for a more transparent and empathetic approach when handling sensitive issues involving teenagers.
The mother who raised the alarm in the initial report insisted that she has not received any official communication regarding her son’s case. WAEC, however, maintained its commitment to improving assessment standards across West Africa, stating that it will continue to use its best endeavors to enhance the quality of education in Nigeria.
In its statement, WAEC emphasized its dedication to adding value to the educational goals of its stakeholders. The council’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and due process is evident in its handling of examination malpractice cases. As a world-class examining body, WAEC aims to ensure that its processes are fair, legitimate, and respectful of candidates’ rights.
