The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has attributed the late-night administration of the English Language Paper 2 in the ongoing 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to a combination of logistical setbacks, security concerns, and sociocultural challenges.

In a statement released by the Public Affairs Department and signed by Moyosola Adesina, WAEC acknowledged the disruptions and issued an apology to candidates, schools, and parents affected by the delay.

“We acknowledge the challenges currently being experienced in the ongoing WASSCE for School Candidates, 2025, including the delay in the conduct of the English Language Paper 2 which was taken today,” the statement read.

The examination body explained that the delay was a result of enhanced measures to maintain the integrity and security of the examination. While these efforts successfully prevented any leak of the question paper, WAEC admitted they also contributed to the late administration of the exam.

“Despite our best efforts, we encountered logistical hurdles, security concerns, and sociocultural factors that negatively influenced our operations. In order to forestall future occurrences of this nature, the Council is currently collaborating with security agencies,” WAEC stated.

WAEC reaffirmed its commitment to delivering credible and secure examinations and expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their patience and understanding during the disruption.

At Lashbol International School in Ojokoro, Lagos, a private institution, parents were informed around 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday that the English Language Paper 2 was still ongoing and would conclude by 7:30 p.m.

However, the situation was more dire at Unity Model School in Asaba, Delta State, where students were forced to write the exam in the dark using torchlights following a prolonged delay. The examination, initially scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m., reportedly did not commence until around 6:00 p.m. due to late delivery of question papers. With no electricity in the school premises, students had to rely on handheld lights to complete their papers.

The incident has ignited widespread public outrage. The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) described the development as a “national disgrace” and a “moral calamity.” In a statement, NAPS President, Comrade Eshiofune Paul Oghayan, called for an immediate investigation by WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education.

Critics argue that the situation not only jeopardizes the credibility of the examination process but also exposes systemic weaknesses in infrastructure and educational planning.