A landmark WAEC exam lawsuit has been filed against the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education.
The suit accuses both institutions of violating students’ rights during the 2025 WASSCE.
The claim was brought forward by human rights lawyer Evans Ufeli before the Federal High Court in Lagos.
The case centers around the reported mistreatment of students during the English Language paper.
According to the claim, some candidates wrote the exam under poor lighting and security conditions as late as 8pm.
These irregularities allegedly caused widespread trauma and disrupted students’ focus.
Describing the incident as “unconstitutional and harmful to the mental health of minors,” Ufeli is seeking N100 billion in damages.
In addition, he wants a re-sit for all affected papers, a public apology, and a full review of WAEC’s exam logistics.
He stated, “This case is not just about one paper. It is about the future of a generation.”
The suit references key constitutional sections, including Sections 33 to 36 and 46 of the 1999 Constitution.
It also draws from the Child Rights Act and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Ufeli stressed that the students’ right to dignity, fair hearing, and life had been violated.
Moreover, he stated, “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.”
Reports of chaos, poor coordination, and delayed exam materials across several centers were also cited as evidence.
The lawyer said this points to systemic failure in planning and execution, which should not be excused.
Furthermore, Ufeli called for an official apology from WAEC and the ministry.
He requested the court to issue “an order directing the Respondents to publicly apologise and undertake a comprehensive review of their examination logistics and contingency procedures.”
In addition to the re-sit and policy overhaul, he is demanding “N100 billion in general and exemplary damages for the alleged mental anguish, trauma, and violation of students’ rights.”
He added, “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.”
The WAEC exam lawsuit has sparked national conversation about the state of education logistics in Nigeria.
It also raises broader concerns about how public institutions manage events that affect young people.
Meanwhile, no hearing date has been set for the case.
