By Peter.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a strong appeal to the Federal Government and the House of Representatives, urging restraint in the ongoing oversight probe into basic education examination bodies to avoid disruptions that could harm students nationwide.
In a statement signed Monday, December 15, 2025, by National President Comr. Olushola Oladoja, NANS expressed “deep concern” over recent public discussions and media reports surrounding interactions between the House Committee on Basic Education Examination Bodies and agencies like WAEC, NECO, and JAMB.
Key Points from NANS’ Statement
- Acknowledgment of Oversight Role: NANS recognizes the National Assembly’s constitutional powers under Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution for legislative oversight, calling it “essential to good governance and institutional effectiveness.”
- Call for Restraint: The group stressed that oversight must not create “uncertainty” or pressure that disrupts exam bodies’ statutory duties, especially since these agencies are largely self-funded through candidate fees.
- Student Impact Warning: “Examination fees are paid by students for clearly defined purposes… Any disruption could have direct consequences for students amid prevailing economic challenges.”
- Push for Constructive Dialogue: NANS advocated using “established procedures” and “constructive engagement” among the legislature, executive, and exam bodies to resolve issues transparently.
The association vowed to monitor developments and engage authorities “through lawful and democratic means” to protect exam integrity and student welfare, concluding: “Oversight should ultimately strengthen institutions and serve the public good.”
Context: The Brewing Controversy
The appeal follows reports of tense hearings where the House Committee, chaired by Hon. Oboku Oforji, quizzed heads of WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, and others on financial management, exam conduct, and alleged irregularities. Critics have accused the committee of overreach, while supporters defend it as accountability. No official disruptions reported yet, but NANS fears ripple effects on upcoming exams like WAEC SSCE or JAMB UTME.
X reactions are measured: Praise for NANS’ “mature stance” [post:0], with students echoing: “Don’t turn oversight into chaos—exams are sacred” [post:1]. Some skepticism: “When will probes fix fees, not just fight?” [post:2].
NANS’ intervention signals students’ growing voice in education policy—balancing accountability with stability. Will stakeholders heed the call? Eyes on the next hearing. 📚🇳🇬 #NANSStatement #ExamBodiesProbe #StudentVoice
