The West African Examination Council (WAEC) has publicly refuted claims currently making the rounds in the media of a breach of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU).
In a press statement signed by Ag. Head, Public Affairs, of the Council, Moyosola Adesina, said the West African Examinations Council has taken notice of a story circulating regarding the alleged “BREACH OF THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AGREED UPON AT THE FEDERAL MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT: REQUEST FOR THE IMMEDIATE RETRACTION OF MANAGEMENT COMMUNICATION MEMO REF: L/GAD/40/IX/46 DATED 14TH MARCH, 2025” that is currently being disseminated in the media.
She reiterated that the Council is a law-abiding organization that upholds the principles of justice, equity, and order. “This commitment to legality is clear in the mode the Council conducts its affairs, always adhering to established rules and regulations of its host country.
Furthermore, she stated: “In response to the issues raised in the Declaration of the Trade dispute earlier raised by the NASU and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) entered into between NASU and WAEC on March 10, 2025, at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment. WAEC wishes to affirm that it has not receded on the agreements reached during that meeting to reinstate the deduction of staff check-off dues by March 2025.
“For the avoidance of doubt, regarding the issue raised about the unilateral suspension of union activities in the Council, it was agreed by both parties that the Management of the Council had never done anything to put up any action to suspend trade union activities in the Council.
“Consequently, the issue of the non-recognition of NASU members in branch offices of the Council earlier mentioned did not hold water as the Management of WAEC declared that it recognizes NASU, as a registered trade union in line with the provisions of the Trade Unions Act.”
She continued: “Also, the alleged threat of transfer of staff who are NASU executives to other parts of the country and alleged victimization of members, could not be substantiated.
“The Council clarified that the transfer of its staff to other parts of the country is aimed at career progression and for staff to gain more experience, inner-working and knowledge on the job. Moreover, the Conditions of Service booklet issued to staff upon resumption of duty in WAEC clearly states that in line with the discharge of duty, staff may be transferred from one station to another during their professional career(s) in the Council.
The statement stated further that the Council has never in any way belittled NASU and will never engage with staff outside the dictates of the code of conduct, hence hindering any intent to victimize staff.
“Also, the Council’s dedication to being a law-abiding organization extends beyond mere compliance; it reflects a deep-seated commitment to upholding the values of justice and integrity in all its endeavors. Through its unwavering adherence to legal principles and continuous efforts to improve legal literacy among its members, the Council sets a commendable example of responsible governance and ethical conduct,” it stated.
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