The Lagos State Government has rescheduled all Basic Education Certificate Examination papers initially fixed for Wednesday, July 1, 2026, due to the observance of the Oro Festival in some communities within the Ikorodu Division.
The announcement was made in a statement shared on the government’s official X account on Tuesday.
Under the revised arrangement, the affected examination papers will now take place on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, while every other paper on the BECE timetable will proceed as originally scheduled.
The Oro Festival is a traditional Yoruba rite observed in some communities for spiritual cleansing, communal regulation and the appeasement of deities, particularly after the death of a monarch.
The festival involves male-only activities and often comes with movement restrictions requiring women and non-initiates to remain indoors.
According to the state government, the decision to shift the examinations followed consultations with key stakeholders after the festival was declared.
“Following the declaration of the Oro Festival in parts of the Ikorodu Division on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, and after due consultation with relevant stakeholders, the State Government has approved the postponement of all BECE papers earlier scheduled for the day,” the statement read.
The Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, through the Lagos State Examinations Board, noted that the adjustment affects the 2026 BECE, which began on Monday, June 29.
The ministry explained that the move was necessary to protect candidates, examination officials and other participants while ensuring the exercise is conducted without interruptions.
“This decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to safeguard the lives of candidates, examination personnel and other stakeholders, as well as to ensure the smooth and orderly conduct of the examination without disruption,” the statement added.
Students have been urged to obtain the updated examination timetable from their schools and make adequate preparations for the rescheduled papers.
The government also expressed regret over any inconvenience caused by the development and appealed to parents, guardians, school authorities, candidates and members of the public for their understanding and cooperation.
The Lagos State Examinations Board reiterated its commitment to organising credible, transparent and seamless examinations in line with the state’s education goals.
