OYIGBO — A massive examination fraud scandal has reportedly hit Best Steps Academy Secondary School in Oyigbo, Rivers State, with allegations that WAEC supervisors are extorting students to facilitate cheating in the ongoing 2026 senior secondary certificate exams.
The school, located at No. 5 Atusiaka Lane, has come under fire after whistleblowers revealed that officials are mandating every candidate to pay a “cooperation fee” of ₦6,000 per subject to avoid sabotage or to receive “assistance” during the papers.
The ₦54,000 “Surcharge”
The alleged extortion at Centre Number 4332165 has sparked outrage among parents, who point out that for a student taking the standard nine subjects, this illegal levy totals a staggering ₦54,000—often exceeding the actual WAEC registration fee.
“This is a systematic drain on parents,” one concerned resident shared online. “Supervisors sent by the council are reportedly leading the charge, telling students that if they don’t pay, they will face difficulties during the exams.”
WAEC and State Government on High Alert
The allegations come at a time of “zero tolerance” for malpractice in Rivers State. The state’s Ministry of Education has previously demoted principals and withdrawn the operational licenses of private schools involved in such rackets.
Across Nigeria, the 2026 exam cycle has already seen intensified crackdowns:
- Arrests: WAEC recently confirmed the arrest of several individuals, including supervisors and school proprietors, across various states for similar misconduct.
- Technological Safeguards: To combat such fraud, WAEC has introduced new measures for the 1.9 million candidates this year, ensuring tighter control over question distribution.
- Reporting Portals: WAEC Nigeria has launched channels to allow for transparent reporting and tracking of compromised centres.
The Consequences of “Special Centres”
Educational activists warn that schools operating as “miracle centres” risk permanent blacklisting. In Rivers State specifically, the Ministry of Education has warned that any principal found extorting money for “exam logistics” or “security fees” will face immediate sanctions.
As of Tuesday evening, the management of Best Steps Academy has not issued an official response to the viral allegations.
