House Committee Again Adjourns Investigative Hearing On WAEC

The House of Representatives investigative hearing into the West African Examinations Council, WAEC, over alleged irregularities in the conduct of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) has been adjourned for the second time.

The Chairman Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies, Oboku Oforji, had summoned WAEC officials to account for incidents, including exams starting at midnight in certain locations.

However, the hearing was stalled due to the absence of the Head of WAEC Nigeria.

Oforji opened the session by apologizing to parents and Nigerians, describing the conduct of the exams as embarrassing.

He cited incidents such as exams starting at midnight in Jalingo, which caused emotional distress to students.

WAEC’s delegation, led by Senior Assistant Registrar Ambrose Okelezo,
acknowledged disruptions, including delays in the English Language paper, and said WAEC’s leadership was meeting to prevent future issues.

He told lawmakers that the Head of the National Office was unavailable due to duties related to printing exam materials and asked for an adjournment.

lawmakers rejected Okelezo’s appearance, with Awaji-Inombek Abiante saying he was “not competent to speak” for WAEC. “You left question papers in commercial vehicles,” Abiante said, expressing outrage over logistical failures. “You are not competent, resign.”

The committee ruled that WAEC’s top official must appear by 2:00 p.m. on Monday and failure to comply may attract further legislative action.

Other lawmakers, including Pascal Agbodike and Billy Osawaru, supported the motion to postpone the hearing until the Head of National Office could testify.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji