WAEC WASSCE extortion warning targets schools and supervisors accused of imposing illegal fees on candidates during exams

The West African Examinations Council (West African Examinations Council) has warned school proprietors, principals, supervisors and invigilators against imposing unauthorised charges on candidates during the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination.

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The warning was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Council’s Public Affairs Department and signed by the Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina.

According to WAEC, reports received by the Council indicate that some examination supervisors and school authorities have allegedly been demanding payments from candidates and parents under various pretexts, including transportation of examination scripts, welfare packages and unauthorised “cooperation” fees.

The Council also disclosed that it had identified instances where schools charged candidates for KAPEK calculators that had already been supplied free of charge by WAEC.

Describing the practice as a serious violation, the examination body said such actions were illegal, unethical and capable of undermining the credibility of the examination process.

WAEC directed all stakeholders involved in administering the examination to immediately cease any form of unauthorised collection of money from candidates or their parents.

The Council stressed that no payment for examination officials would be tolerated and urged students, parents and members of the public to report any attempted extortion through designated communication channels or directly to zonal coordinators.

The statement further warned against any form of intimidation, harassment or undue pressure on candidates during the conduct of the examination.

WAEC said schools or officials found guilty of engaging in such practices would face severe sanctions, including derecognition, blacklisting, prosecution and referral to relevant authorities for disciplinary action.

Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining examination standards, the Council said it remains focused on protecting the integrity of its assessments and ensuring that candidates are not subjected to unlawful financial demands.

The warning comes amid ongoing efforts by WAEC to ensure the smooth conduct of the 2026 May/June West African Senior School Certificate Examination, which commenced on 21 April and is scheduled to conclude on 19 June 2026.

The Council noted that the examination has faced operational challenges, including delays affecting some papers due to logistics difficulties and a fatal road accident involving examination officials.

Despite those setbacks, WAEC said measures are being strengthened to improve logistics, prevent disruptions and safeguard the credibility of future examinations.

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The latest directive underscores the Council’s determination to eliminate misconduct and preserve public confidence in the examination system across participating schools.