- The West African Examinations Council and the Federal Ministry of Education are reportedly facing a N100 billion lawsuit over allegations of student mistreatment during the 2025 WASSCE.
- Human rights lawyer Evans Ufeli filed a suit against WAEC and the ministry, accusing them of exposing students to unsafe conditions, particularly during the English Language exam.
WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education are facing a N100 billion lawsuit over claims of subjecting students to harsh and degrading conditions during the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
Human rights lawyer, Evans Ufeli, filed the lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Lagos, accusing both bodies of negligence and failing to protect the rights of minors during a national examination. He cited, in particular, the English Language exam, where some students were allegedly forced to write papers under poor lighting conditions as late as 8pm in unsecured locations.
Representing a group of affected candidates, Ufeli described the situation as unconstitutional and psychologically harmful. According to him, the conduct of the examination violated students’ rights to dignity, fair treatment, and safety as protected under the 1999 Constitution, the Child Rights Act, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
In the court filing, the lawyer demanded a rescheduling of all exams affected by delays, an official public apology from WAEC and the Ministry of Education, and a complete overhaul of examination logistics moving forward.
“The Respondents failed in their constitutional and statutory duties to protect students’ rights during a crucial national exam. This has caused widespread psychological trauma, disrupted academic performance, and exposed students to physical harm,” the application reads.
Ufeli also requested the court to award N100 billion in damages to compensate students for the trauma and rights violations endured during the examination period.
“An order directing the Respondents to publicly apologise and undertake a comprehensive review of their examination logistics and contingency procedures.
“N100 billion in general and exemplary damages for the alleged mental anguish, trauma, and violation of students’ rights.
“This case is not just about one paper. It is about the future of a generation. The law does not permit the State or its agencies to sacrifice the rights and well-being of students on the altar of bureaucratic ineptitude,” Ufeli stated.
Reports from civil society groups, lawmakers, and media outlets had earlier highlighted widespread logistical lapses and late delivery of exam materials in multiple centers nationwide.
A hearing date for the case is yet to be scheduled.
