Widespread confusion erupted at numerous exam centres across Nigeria as candidates scheduled to sit for the English Language paper of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) experienced lengthy delays.
Although the exam was slated to begin at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, it did not commence until around midday at several locations.
In some centres, the final paper didnโt start until late into the night, with reports from Lagos indicating that some students were still writing as late as 11:45 p.m., using torchlights to see.
The disruption, which affected several southwestern states including Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, and Osun, sparked outrage among parents and drew criticism online.
Reports suggest the delay was due to a leak of the exam paper online, which led the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to issue a last-minute replacement.
In a statement addressing the situation, WAEC apologised to students, parents, and schools.
Acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, attributed the delays to heightened security measures aimed at curbing exam malpractice.
โWhile we successfully maintained the integrity of the examination, it impacted the timeliness and seamless conduct of the English Language paper,โ the statement read.
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