There was a time when the mention of examination malpractice struck fear into students, as invigilators were highly vigilant, teachers spoke highly against it, and anyone caught cheating faced severe consequences. Examination halls were meant to be places where knowledge, preparation, and hard work determined success.
Today, many Nigerians believe that reality is slowly disappearing. As the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) continues across the country, disturbing stories have emerged from students who claim that examination malpractice has become so deeply entrenched in some schools that refusing to participate can actually put a candidate at a disadvantage.
According to several students, some schools allegedly demand payments ranging from a few thousand naira to much higher amounts depending on the subject involved. These payments are often linked to what is popularly known as “expo” in Nigeria, leaked answers or organized assistance during examinations.
What is perhaps even more troubling is the allegation that students who choose not to pay and instead rely solely on their preparation are sometimes treated unfairly. While such claims cannot be generalized to every school, the volume of complaints coming raises serious concerns about the integrity of the examination system.
Years ago, examination malpractice was considered a disgrace but today, in some quarters, it appears to have evolved from a prohibited act into an unofficial business model.
Rather than discouraging cheating, some schools allegedly organize elaborate systems to ensure their students obtain impressive grades, preferring excellent results to attract more admissions, enhance school reputation, and create a perception of academic excellence.
A school boasting a high number of A’s naturally appears more attractive to prospective parents than one producing average results. But behind those grades lies a troubling reality.
If a student earns an A through assistance rather than understanding, what exactly has been achieved? Good grades are valuable only when they reflect genuine learning.
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An A in Mathematics means little if the student cannot solve basic problems after the examination. A distinction in English loses its significance if the candidate struggles to communicate effectively. Certificates may open doors, but competence determines whether someone can remain inside.
The unfortunate consequence of widespread malpractice is that it creates an illusion of excellence. Students leave school believing they are academically strong when, in reality, many lack the foundational knowledge required for higher education or the workplace.
Universities repeatedly complain about underprepared freshmen. Employers increasingly lament the declining quality of graduates entering the labour market. The roots of these problems may lie much earlier than many are willing to admit.
When students are encouraged to rely on expo, they gradually learn that success comes not from preparation but from shortcuts. They begin to believe that rules can be bypassed and that results matter more than integrity.
Ironically, the biggest victims are often the students themselves. Many young people spend months studying for examinations only to discover that effort is no longer the main currency of success. Some become discouraged. Others eventually succumb to pressure and join the system simply to avoid being left behind.
When honesty becomes a disadvantage, something is fundamentally broken. Students should never feel punished for choosing integrity. They should never be made to believe that their intelligence is worthless unless accompanied by a payment.
It is important to acknowledge that many schools across Nigeria continue to uphold high standards. Thousands of teachers remain committed to ethical education and genuinely work to prepare students for success.
However, the persistence of malpractice in even a fraction of schools is enough to damage public confidence in the examination system.
