WAEC, Education Ministry Sued for N100 Billion Over Alleged Mistreatment of Students

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the Federal Ministry of Education are facing a N100 billion lawsuit over alleged gross negligence and mistreatment of students during the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

Renowned human rights lawyer Evans Ufeli filed the suit at the Federal High Court in Lagos, accusing the exam body and the education ministry of exposing students to unsafe, degrading, and unconstitutional conditions—especially during the English Language paper, which some students were reportedly forced to write as late as 8pm, in poor lighting and insecure environments.

Ufeli, who is representing a group of affected students, described the ordeal as a violation of fundamental rights, stating it undermined the mental health, dignity, and academic performance of minors.

Citing Sections 33–36 and 46 of the 1999 Constitution, along with provisions of the Child Rights Act and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the suit seeks:

• A court-ordered re-sit of all affected examinations.

• A public apology from both WAEC and the Ministry of Education.

• A comprehensive overhaul of WAEC’s logistics and exam coordination procedures.

• N100 billion in general and exemplary damages to compensate for the trauma and rights violations suffered by students.

“The Respondents failed in their constitutional and statutory duties to protect students’ rights during a crucial national exam,” Ufeli stated.

“This has caused widespread psychological trauma, disrupted academic performance, and exposed students to physical harm.”

The suit further alleges administrative failure and logistical chaos at multiple exam centers across Nigeria, referencing findings from the National Assembly, civil society organizations, and media reports that confirmed delays in exam material delivery and poor coordination.

“This case is not just about one paper,” Ufeli emphasized.
“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.”

As of now, no hearing date has been fixed for the lawsuit.