The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has apologised to parents, pupils, and other stakeholders over the delay that occurred in the conduct of English Language Paper 2 on Wednesday.

The council had delayed the examination for several hours in an attempt to protect its integrity after hints of a paper leak.

The videos and pictures of the delay went viral online, showing pupils writing examinations late in the night with the use of flashlights.

In a statement yesterday, WAEC’s acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, explained that in a bid to maintain the integrity and security of the examination, the council faced challenges trying to prevent a leak of any paper.

The statement reads: “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.

“We recognise the importance of timely conduct of examinations and the impact of this decision on the candidates, their schools, and parents, and we sincerely apologise for any inconveniences caused.

“The West African Examinations Council appreciates the understanding and support of all stakeholders during this period. We remain committed to upholding the highest standard in the conduct of examinations and shall continue to promote academic excellence.”

Though the council did not give the number of states affected by the delay, an inside source told our reporter that Lagos, Osun, Ogun, and Taraba states were affected.

Also, the House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies yesterday gave the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) 24 hours to appear before it to address concerns surrounding the ongoing Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).

Committee Chairman Oboku Abonsizibe Oforji said in a statement that the ultimatum followed WAEC’s failure to honour an earlier invitation to appear before it.

“The examinations have been riddled with serious irregularities. We’ve received reports of students writing exams as late as midnight in some centres across the country.

“The House felt it necessary to summon WAEC to explain these developments and the trauma candidates are currently facing. However, WAEC responded this morning, saying they couldn’t appear due to their involvement in the ongoing exams. Ironically, this is the very reason we are asking them to appear,” the statement said.

Oforji added: “Our intention is not to witch-hunt WAEC but to seek answers that will calm public tension and prevent a recurrence of these challenges. WAEC has been conducting exams for decades, and we have never experienced this level of disorganisation. Something is wrong, and it must be addressed.

“The committee has, therefore, resolved that WAEC must appear unfailingly on Friday, May 30, 2025, or face legislative sanctions in accordance with the powers vested in us by the Constitution.”