By Our Reporter
Signs of rising industrial unrest emerged on Thursday after the gate of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) office in Onikolobo, Abeokuta, was locked, fueling concerns over a possible disruption to the ongoing 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in Ogun State.
Multiple sources said that candidates and visitors stranded outside the office were seen sitting on benches at the entrance, unable to gain access.
The protest is being spearheaded by the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), which accused WAEC management of imposing unilateral policies, violating seniority procedures, and taking punitive actions against workers.
NASU said the actions have weakened staff morale and trust within WAEC’s Ogun operations, warning that members may embark on full industrial action if their demands remain unresolved.
Among the union’s key grievances are the suspension of staff upgrade programmes, enforcement of a minimum net pay policy, and the setting up of investigative panels without consultation with the union.
NASU also faulted recruitment procedures and recent adjustments to the WASSCE examination structure, claiming they were introduced without adequate engagement.
Labour observers warned that any prolonged protest could affect critical administrative support for the examination process in Ogun State, including the movement of exam materials, supervision logistics, and script processing. Such disruptions could ultimately delay examinations and the release of results.
The union is demanding the immediate restoration of upgrade programmes, reversal of the net pay policy, and greater transparency in recruitment and disciplinary procedures. Until those demands are met,
NASU insists the planned action will continue, leaving WAEC with limited time to avert a major disruption to the 2026 WASSCE in Ogun State.
