Former Vice President of Nigeria and 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed outrage over reports that some students were forced to write their West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in complete darkness and under poor conditions.
Describing the situation as a national disgrace, Atiku condemned it as totally unacceptable and indefensible.
In a post on his official Facebook page, Atiku said it was shameful that, in 2025, Nigerian students are still being subjected to such conditions during critical national exams.
He added that the incident highlighted a deep neglect in the country’s education system, especially as it occurred just a day after International Children’s Day, which is meant to celebrate and prioritise the wellbeing of young people.
Calling for immediate action, Atiku urged the authorities to allow all affected students to retake the compromised exam paper.
He insisted that punishing students for circumstances beyond their control would be a grave injustice, noting that it is the responsibility of examination bodies to ensure a conducive environment for tests.
He added that the failure of these authorities to provide basic amenities like lighting for an exam is a clear example of institutional negligence.
Atiku spoke on the need for urgent investment in educational infrastructure and called on the government to enforce minimum standards for all future exams to prevent such a failure from happening again.
He concluded by stating that such a disgraceful situation must never be allowed to repeat itself.
