Reps Committee Rejects WAEC Delegation, Insists on Appearance of Head of National Office

The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Services on Thursday rejected a delegation sent by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), insisting on the physical appearance of the Head of National Office (HNO), Mr. Patrick Areghan.

The committee had invited WAEC to clarify a range of issues relating to the conduct and integrity of public examinations across the country.

However, instead of Mr. Areghan, WAEC sent a team of senior officials, a decision that did not sit well with the lawmakers.

Chairman of the committee, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, expressed strong displeasure over the absence of the HNO, stating that the committee would not proceed with the meeting in his absence.

He emphasized that the issues on the agenda were too important to be addressed by delegated officials.

“This committee is not satisfied with the appearance of WAEC without the Head of National Office. We are dealing with critical national matters that require the highest level of accountability and direct engagement.

Only the HNO can provide the clarity and authority this committee requires,” Ihonvbere said.

The lawmakers subsequently adjourned the session, directing WAEC to ensure Mr. Areghan appears before the committee at a later date. Ihonvbere warned that failure to comply could result in the House invoking its powers to compel his appearance.

The invitation to WAEC was part of an ongoing legislative inquiry into reported lapses in the conduct of public examinations, including cases of malpractice, delays in result releases, and inconsistencies in student data.

The committee had planned to question WAEC on its operations, digital infrastructure, and its collaboration with federal and state education authorities.

As of press time, WAEC has not issued an official response to the committee’s decision or confirmed whether Mr. Areghan will appear at the next hearing.

The development underscores the growing demand for accountability from institutions overseeing critical national processes, particularly in the education sector