Widespread Backlash Against Federal Government’s Proposed Age Limit for WASSCE

There has been a widespread backlash against the recent Federal Government’s decision to set an age limit of 18 years for students taking the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, announced the policy during an interview on Channels Television on Sunday.

The pronouncement of the policy has generated widespread criticism, with many calling it outdated and overly restrictive.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was among the most vocal critics, describing the policy as “archaic” and a “barrier to academic freedom.” He argued that the decision was an overreach by the federal government. Atiku suggested it should be left to state governments, as education falls under the concurrent list in Nigeria’s constitution.

Atiku stated, “This controversial policy belongs in the stone ages and should be roundly condemned by everyone who believes in intellectual freedom and accessibility.”

In response to the backlash, the Senate has pledged to hold public hearings on the matter before making any legislative decisions. Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, assured that the Senate would consider public opinions on the policy. Adsramodu said, “Whatever is brought to the Senate for constitutional and statutory stamps shall be subjected to legislative crucible which includes public hearings.”

The House of Representatives, however, has not yet taken a position on the issue. Akin Rotimi, spokesman for the House, noted that members have not been briefed on the matter and will address it once it is officially brought before them.

Civil society organizations have also voiced strong opposition to the policy. Yinka Ogunde, founder of the Concerned Parents and Educators Network (CPE), criticized the government’s approach. Ogunde argued that such significant changes should not be implemented without proper consultation.

Ogunde questioned, “We are not in a military regime and people should be consulted. If we are starting it this year, what becomes of millions of secondary school students who are not going to clock 18 before they graduate?”

Abiodun Baiyewu, Executive Director of Global Rights Nigeria, highlighted the inconsistency in the government’s policies. He noted that while there is a minimum age for tertiary education, there is no minimum age for marriage in Nigeria. Baiyewu warned, “Barring children from accessing higher education till they turn 18 does not guarantee them the security of staying in secondary school till they turn 18. A break in their education might mean the end of their education.”

The policy has also drawn criticism from the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) and the Arewa Youth Assembly. Dr. Zikirullahi Ibrahim, Executive Director of CHRICED, expressed concern that the policy might lead to increased forgery and age falsification, undermining its intended purpose. “The Federal Government’s move is absurd, and I’m not sure anyone will comply with it,” Dr. Ibrahim said.

Meanwhile, Mohammed Danlami, Coordinator of the Arewa Youth Assembly, argued that the policy would stifle the intellectual growth of young prodigies and further hinder Nigeria’s educational progress.

Danlami stated, “Some students experience rapid promotions due to their natural intelligence or intellectual gifts. Are we going to halt their educational advancements because of their age? This is not the kind of law we need in Nigeria.”

The National Coordinator of the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Hassan Taiwo Soweto, called for the immediate suspension of the policy. He criticized the lack of consultation and warned of its negative implications for young people who have already applied for admission to tertiary institutions.

“We ask for the immediate suspension of this policy, pending democratic consultation by stakeholders in the education sector,” Soweto demanded.