The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced the withholding of the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results of candidates from 50 secondary schools across Nigeria over alleged examination malpractice.
In an official notice dated August 2, 2026, WAEC informed public and private secondary school heads that the affected schools must submit a detailed report explaining the alleged malpractice cases within 14 days of receiving the notice.
According to the examination body, the action was taken in line with the WAEC Bye-Laws on Examination Malpractice, stressing that failure to comply with the directive could attract additional sanctions.
Why Were the Results Withheld?
WAEC explained that the decision followed allegations of examination malpractice recorded during the 2026 WASSCE for School Candidates. The council emphasized that the withholding of results does not automatically amount to a final conviction, as the affected schools have been given an opportunity to present their side of the matter.
The reports submitted by the schools will be reviewed before WAEC makes a final decision regarding the affected candidates’ results.
Schools Affected
The list released by WAEC contains 50 schools spread across several states, including Lagos, Oyo, Rivers, Abuja, Enugu, Kaduna, Bauchi, Gombe, Benue, Ondo, Delta, Cross River, Ogun, Kwara, Imo, Akwa Ibom, Nasarawa, Taraba, Edo, Anambra, and others.
Some of the schools listed include:
- Victory College, Lagos State
- Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Ibadan
- Greenfield Academy, Abuja
- Dominion Comprehensive College, Port Harcourt
- Deeper Life High School, Gbagada
- Prestige College, Lagos
- Hallmark Academy, Owerri
- Oxford College, Ibadan
- Sweetwaters Secondary School, Lagos
- Topfaith International School, Jalingo
What Happens Next?
WAEC has directed all affected schools to provide comprehensive reports detailing the circumstances surrounding the alleged malpractice within the stipulated 14-day period.
After reviewing the reports and conducting any necessary investigations, the council will determine whether the withheld results should be released or whether further disciplinary action will be taken.
WAEC’s Stand on Examination Malpractice
WAEC reiterated its commitment to preserving the integrity and credibility of its examinations. The council noted that examination malpractice undermines the value of certificates and the nation’s educational system.
Students, school administrators, teachers, and parents have also been encouraged to uphold ethical standards during examinations to ensure fairness and credibility.
Advice to Candidates
Candidates from the affected schools are advised to remain calm while the investigation is ongoing. Since the cases are still under review, WAEC has not yet made a final determination on the affected results.
Students should also maintain communication with their respective school authorities for official updates regarding the status of their results.
Conclusion
The withholding of the 2026 WASSCE results of candidates from 50 schools highlights WAEC’s continued efforts to combat examination malpractice in Nigeria. While the investigation continues, the affected schools have been given the opportunity to respond to the allegations before any final decision is reached.
Candidates and parents are advised to rely only on official information from WAEC and their respective schools for accurate updates regarding the matter.