Exclusive: How Wassce Leak Led To Midnight Exams Across Nigeria
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has launched an internal investigation following a major leakage of the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) papers, particularly the English Language exam, which surfaced online four days before the scheduled date.
Sources revealed that some officials of the council might have been involved in the leak. The incident prompted a nationwide scramble to reprint question papers, leading to severe delays. In several states—Lagos, Ogun, Taraba, and Osun—students sat for the rescheduled exam late into the night, often in darkness, using torchlights and lanterns due to power outages.
WAEC admitted the delay, citing efforts to combat examination malpractice and secure exam integrity. The acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, explained that the situation was complicated by logistical issues and security concerns.
An estimated 1.97 million candidates registered for this year’s exam across over 23,000 schools.
The scandal comes on the heels of recent disruptions in the 2025/2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, adding to concerns about Nigeria’s examination systems.
Inside the Leak
According to insider accounts, a syndicate allegedly monetized the leaked papers via platforms on WhatsApp and Telegram. One such group reportedly had over 80,000 subscribers, charging between N1,000 and N5,000 per subject. The English Language paper, including essay and objective sections, was reportedly shared as early as May 24, days ahead of the exam.
Authorities are now tracing digital payment trails to identify culprits, and security agencies have begun investigations. Some council staff reportedly worked nonstop for 48 hours to manage the emergency.
Anger from Parents and Students
The fallout from the delayed exams sparked outrage among parents and candidates. Many parents decried the psychological toll on students, some of whom didn’t return home until close to midnight. The National Parents Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) demanded the cancellation and rescheduling of the English Language paper, arguing that the conditions under which students wrote the exam were mentally and physically draining.
Parents described the ordeal as traumatic. Several said their children were too exhausted to prepare for the next day’s papers, and they criticized WAEC for failing to protect the integrity of the examination process.
Students Feel Cheated
Some candidates expressed concern that the leak gave undue advantage to those who accessed the questions in advance, placing honest students at a disadvantage. A number of them called for the exam to be rescheduled, describing the experience as stressful and demoralizing.
Calls for Reform
Education stakeholders are now renewing calls for Computer-Based Testing (CBT) to replace traditional paper-based exams. Leaders of school associations argue that CBT could help eliminate leaks, miracle centres, and rogue platforms.
The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation to determine the extent of the breach before deciding on a resit.
Meanwhile, education experts warn that the prolonged wait and chaotic conditions may lead to mass failure and long-term damage to students’ mental well-being.