By Atoyebi Nike
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly criticized the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) over the delay of the English Language paper in the ongoing SSCE exams.
The paper, originally set for 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, was pushed to 7:00 p.m. following a reported exam leak. NANS said the late-hour decision put thousands of students in danger, especially those in rural areas who must travel home after dark.
In a statement on Thursday, NANS spokesman Adeyemi Ajasa called the delay unacceptable. He said it disrupted students’ focus and exposed them to serious safety risks. “This shows a lack of concern for student welfare,” he said.
Ajasa added that repeated leaks point to deep failures in WAEC’s security. He warned that such lapses damage the credibility of Nigeria’s education system. “Students are already facing many challenges,” he said. “They should not suffer for the failures of an exam body.”
NANS is demanding a full investigation. The group wants WAEC to find and punish those behind the leak. They also called for stronger security measures, including better use of technology.
The association is also asking WAEC to issue a public apology. “Students and their families deserve it,” Ajasa said. “The stress and confusion caused by this delay were avoidable.”
He said the safety of students must be a top priority going forward. NANS warned that if WAEC fails to act, it will take further steps.
“We won’t stand by while students are put at risk,” Ajasa said. “We expect urgent and clear action.”
WAEC has not yet responded to the criticism or confirmed the cause of the delay.
