The West African Examination Council (WAEC) has sanctioned 13 schools in Kogi State for involvement in examination malpractices during the 2023/2024 West Africa Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This was revealed by the state’s Commissioner for Education, Mr. Wemi Jones, during a meeting with school principals and supervisors implicated in the misconduct.

Additionally, WAEC blacklisted 14 examination supervisors for similar offenses. The commissioner expressed the government’s strong stance against malpractice, warning that any individuals involved, including principals, teachers, and supervisors, would face strict penalties under the Kogi State Education Law and Other Matters Connected Therewith, 2020.

Jones announced the formation of a committee, led by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, to investigate those indicted by WAEC. He assured that anyone found guilty would be prosecuted, emphasizing that examination malpractice is a criminal offense. “Kogi State has invested heavily in education and will no longer tolerate individuals undermining the progress made in the sector,” Jones said.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Seidu Jibrin, also addressed the gathering, urging those involved in malpractices to reflect on their actions. He condemned the detrimental impact of such behaviors on the state’s educational development and the future of its students.

“While some educators are celebrated for their achievements, it is disheartening to see others face condemnation. Kogi State is committed to advancing education, and those who compromise this goal will face severe consequences,” Jibrin stated, calling for accountability and ethical conduct in the education sector.