Outrage as Oyo WAEC Candidates Write WASSCE Practical Exam in Darkness

Concerns have been raised after candidates sitting for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in Oyo State were reportedly forced to write their Agricultural Science practical examination late at night without electricity.

A video obtained showed candidates taking the examination in darkness, with some relying on lanterns and mobile phone flashlights to complete their practical tasks.

The development has sparked outrage among parents and other stakeholders, who questioned the conditions under which the students were made to sit for the examination. Many also expressed concerns about the safety and welfare of the candidates, especially given the late hour at which the examination was reportedly conducted.

Reacting to the incident, cleric Pastor S.O. Solarin criticised the late delivery of examination materials to some centres. According to him, the delay forced candidates to remain at their examination venues for several hours beyond the scheduled time.

Speaking in a video posted on his Facebook page, Solarin said reports indicated that some candidates had to wait for hours before receiving their examination papers, leaving them stranded at examination centres until nightfall.

He described the situation as disturbing, particularly in view of the country’s security challenges, including cases of kidnappings and attacks reported in some communities.

“It has come to our hearing that some of our students writing WAEC only received their examination papers now. Given the security situation in the country, WAEC officials need to explain why students are being kept at examination centres so late in the day,” he said.

Solarin called on the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to explain the delays to parents, schools and affected communities, while many Nigerians have continued to demand improved planning to prevent a recurrence.