WAEC Cracks Down On Candidate Extortion

The examination body described the reported practice as illegal, unethical, and capable of undermining the credibility and integrity of the examination process. In a statement issued on Monday, WAEC disclosed that it had received multiple complaints that some candidates were being made to pay unauthorized fees under various pretenses.

The council noted that these illegal charges reportedly include payments for the transportation of examination materials, welfare packages, and so-called “cooperation” fees. WAEC further expressed concern that some schools were also demanding money from candidates for KAPEK calculators, which it said were already provided free of charge by the council.

WAEC strongly condemned the actions, stating that such practices pose a direct threat to the integrity of the WASSCE and would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

The council warned that any school, supervisor, or official found culpable would face strict sanctions, which may include derecognition of schools, blacklisting of officials, prosecution, and referral to relevant authorities for disciplinary action.

WAEC urged all stakeholders, including schools, supervisors, parents, and candidates, to report any cases of extortion or unethical behavior, stressing that candidates should not be subjected to additional financial burdens outside approved examination requirements.

The examination body also acknowledged ongoing operational and security challenges affecting the conduct of the examination in some parts of the country. It noted that delays in the movement of examination papers had been recorded due to logistics constraints, insecurity, and related disruptions.

WAEC confirmed that three of its staff members lost their lives in a tragic road accident while transporting sensitive examination materials, describing the incident as a painful loss and extending condolences to the bereaved families.

The council added that emergency measures had been activated to ensure affected candidates were still able to sit for their examinations despite the disruptions. It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the smooth conduct of the WASSCE and called for cooperation from all stakeholders to safeguard the integrity of the process.