The Committee interrogated the examination body about a N5 billion loan it secured in 2022 for purchasing customised calculators. Despite receiving the agency’s cashbook from Dangut, the Committee rejected it, demanding bank statements instead.
The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education has launched an investigation into the West African Examination Council (WAEC) over a N6 billion deficit incurred by the agency in 2023.
On Tuesday, Josiah Dangut, the Head of National Office of WAEC Nigeria, was questioned during the investigative hearing, The PUNCH reports.
Dangut was accompanied by Registrar Angus Okeleze, Senior Deputy Registrar Victor Odu, Acting Director of Finance Segun Jerumeh, and Deputy Director of Finance.
The Committee interrogated the examination body about a N5 billion loan it secured in 2022 for purchasing customised calculators. Despite receiving the agency’s cashbook from Dangut, the Committee rejected it, demanding bank statements instead.
The Committee, dissatisfied with the responses from WAEC representatives, has ordered WAEC to submit all its bank statements from 2018 to the present within a week.
Committee member Awaji-Inombek Abiante expressed frustration with WAEC's uncooperative stance and demanded greater transparency, emphasizing the need for accountability.
“WAEC Nigeria has been uncooperative in this process, obstructing the scrutiny of public investment. They must submit all bank statements for further investigation,” Abiante stated.
The Committee voiced disappointment with WAEC's inadequate response, pointing out that only one of the eight requested documents, the nominal roll, was provided.
The Chairman raised concerns over WAEC's financial discrepancies, questioning how the organization could claim N34 billion in revenue for 2023 yet incur N40 billion in expenses.
Additionally, the Chairman sought clarification on WAEC's approval of a N5 billion loan, highlighting that such approvals typically require the consent of a Ministerial Board.
The Committee sought clarification on the number of students who sat for the 2022 exams, for which the calculators were purchased. Additionally, the Committee requested detailed information on the following: The N6 billion deficit, including its cause and implications, all relevant correspondence and documents related to the procurement of calculators, and evidence of approval for the N5 billion loan, including any supporting documentation or authorization from relevant authorities.
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