Malami’s billions for WAEC fees, by Suleiman A. Suleiman

Malami’s billions for WAEC fees, by Suleiman A. Suleiman The controversy surrounding the proposed 82 per cent increase in WAEC and NECO registration fees, from N27,500 to N50,000 per candidate, has sparked widespread outrage among educators, parents, and civil society groups. The federal government initially announced the hike, effective from 2027, but quickly reversed the decision following intense backlash. Meanwhile, a separate legal battle involving former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has led to the court-ordered forfeiture of assets allegedly worth N212 billion. These two developments, though seemingly distinct, highlight deepening concerns about the ethical integrity of Nigerian governance and the prioritization of financial gain over public welfare. The fee increase proposal, which would have impacted nearly two million secondary school students, was met with immediate condemnation. Parents and educators argued that the move would exacerbate the financial strain on families already struggling with rising living costs. According to reports, the total amount collected from WAEC and NECO registrations in 2023 reached over N91 billion, with approximately 1.97 million candidates registering for WAEC and 1.37 million for NECO. If the proposed increase had been implemented, the combined annual revenue from these examinations could have exceeded one trillion naira within a decade. Critics questioned whether such a massive influx of funds justified the continued operation of these examination bodies as profit-driven entities rather than essential public services. Despite the government's reversal of the fee hike, questions remain about the rationale behind the initial proposal. Reports suggest that the policy was formulated without sufficient consultation with key stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and school administrators. There is no indication that the government conducted a thorough analysis of the potential socioeconomic impact of the increase, particularly during a period of high inflation and economic uncertainty. Some analysts pointed out that similar policies, such as the removal of subsidies, the handling of student loan programs, and the imposition of sanctions against the Niger Republic, have historically failed due to their lack of consideration for public sentiment and economic realities. The issue of Malami’s alleged wealth further complicates the narrative of governmental accountability. Court documents revealed that Malami, who served as AGF from 2015 to 2023, is being held accountable for acquiring properties valued at N212 billion while in office. Legal proceedings indicate that these assets were obtained through questionable means, raising serious allegations of corruption and misuse of public resources. While the exact nature of the transactions remains under investigation, the scale of the alleged wealth accumulation has drawn comparisons to the broader pattern of financial mismanagement and impunity that has characterized certain segments of Nigerian leadership. Both cases underscore a growing perception that Nigerian leaders often prioritize personal and institutional gains over the well-being of citizens. The WAEC fee increase, despite being rescinded, exemplifies a trend of policymaking that disregards the lived experiences of ordinary Nigerians. Similarly, the ongoing legal scrutiny of Malami highlights the challenges faced in holding powerful officials accountable for their actions. These incidents have fueled calls for greater transparency, stricter oversight mechanisms, and a reevaluation of the role of public institutions in serving the interests of the populace rather than enriching a select few. As the legal proceedings against Malami continue, and discussions around educational funding and policy reform intensify, the focus remains on ensuring that decisions affecting millions of Nigerians are made with fairness, equity, and a genuine commitment to public service. The outcomes of these developments will likely shape future conversations about governance, ethics, and the responsibilities of those entrusted with public power.