Peter Obi Celebrates FG’s WAEC, NECO Fee Hike Suspension As “Victory For Nigerians

According to Ireporter Online, Obi said the decision reflected the power of public opinion and the importance of listening to citizens’ concerns, particularly at a time when many families are facing economic difficulties.

The former Anambra State governor made his position known in a statement shared on his official account on Monday, where he commended the government for responding to widespread opposition against the planned fee increase.

Obi argued that the proposed adjustment was inappropriate given the current economic realities confronting many Nigerian households, stressing that education policies should focus on expanding access rather than creating additional financial challenges.

He noted that while the suspension of the fee increase was a welcome development, the policy should not have been introduced at a period when many families are struggling to meet basic needs.

The NDC presidential candidate warned that increasing the financial burden on students and parents could worsen the country’s out-of-school children crisis, urging authorities to prioritise investments that would make education more affordable and accessible.

According to Obi, education should be treated as a fundamental right and a public service rather than an avenue for generating revenue. He maintained that government policies should remove barriers preventing children from accessing quality education.

He further called on the Federal Government to review other policies that may be placing unnecessary pressure on Nigerians, adding that responsible leadership requires the willingness to reconsider decisions that negatively affect citizens.

Obi also praised parents, civil society organisations and other Nigerians who raised concerns over the proposed fee increase, stating that their collective advocacy contributed to the government’s decision to suspend the plan.

The Federal Government had earlier announced the suspension of the planned review of WASSCE and NECO registration fees to allow for further consultations with stakeholders.

The Ministry of Education explained that although the proposed adjustment was linked to the rising cost of conducting national examinations, the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, directed that the process be paused pending broader discussions with relevant stakeholders.