The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has sanctioned thousands of candidates over examination malpractice following the release of the provisional results of the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) for School Candidates.

According to WAEC, the subject results of 496 candidates have been cancelled, while the entire results of 105 candidates have also been cancelled for their involvement in examination irregularities.

The council further withheld the subject results of 119 candidates and the entire results of 48 candidates pending the outcome of investigations.

In addition, the subject results of 2,722 candidates from 229 schools have been withheld for further scrutiny. WAEC said the affected results may either be released or cancelled after investigations are concluded by August 31, 2026.

The council directed candidates whose results have been cancelled or withheld to visit its irregularity portal and click on the "withheld/cancelled" button to view the reasons for the sanctions.

Candidates with withheld results will also receive information on the next line of action, while heads of schools and proprietors can access the status of affected candidates through their results listing logins.

WAEC also cautioned the public against individuals claiming they can upgrade examination results for a fee, stressing that its results database is secure and that all results can be authenticated.