WAEC slammed with N100 billion lawsuit over midnight exams

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the Federal Ministry of Education are facing a N100 billion lawsuit over alleged mistreatment of students during the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The suit was filed before the Federal High Court in Lagos by human rights lawyer Evans Ufeli, who accuses WAEC and the ministry of exposing students to unsafe and degrading conditions—especially during the English Language exam, which some candidates were forced to write as late as 8pm in poor lighting and insecure environments.

Representing affected students, Ufeli described the situation as unconstitutional, inhumane, and harmful to the mental health and academic performance of minors.

Citing Sections 33 to 36 and 46 of the 1999 Constitution, the Child Rights Act, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the suit demands several remedies, including a re-sit of all affected exams, a public apology from WAEC and the ministry, and a court-ordered overhaul of the exam body’s logistics and planning.

“The Respondents failed in their constitutional and statutory duties to protect students’ rights during a crucial national exam. This has caused widespread psychological trauma, disrupted academic performance, and exposed students to physical harm,” the application reads.

Ufeli further argues that students’ rights to dignity, fair hearing, and life were violated due to administrative negligence and logistical chaos during the exams.

In addition to the re-sit and public apology, the lawyer is demanding N100 billion in damages to compensate students for the trauma and rights violations they suffered.

“An order directing the Respondents to publicly apologise and undertake a comprehensive review of their examination logistics and contingency procedures.

“N100 billion in general and exemplary damages for the alleged mental anguish, trauma, and violation of students’ rights.

“This case is not just about one paper. It is about the future of a generation. The law does not permit the State or its agencies to sacrifice the rights and well-being of students on the altar of bureaucratic ineptitude,” Ufeli stated.

He also referenced reports from the National Assembly, civil society groups, and media outlets that confirmed delayed exam materials, poor coordination, and chaos at various exam centers nationwide.

No hearing date has been fixed for the case yet.

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