The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has announced an indefinite ban on the popular “signing off” celebrations by final-year students, citing repeated cases of violence, disruption, and security concerns associated with the events.
The decision, which takes immediate effect, was contained in a statement released on Tuesday by the university’s Registrar, Dr. Chinenye Okeke. According to her, the celebrations, which are traditionally held after final examinations, have increasingly resulted in chaos on campus, threatening the safety of students, staff, and visitors.
“The university management wishes to inform you that, effective immediately, all forms of orchestration (‘signing off’) related to final examinations by final-year students are completely and indefinitely banned from the university premises,” the statement read in part. “This decision responds to recurring incidents of chaos, violence, and disruption associated with these events.”
Dr. Okeke further explained that the influx of unauthorised individuals onto the campus during these celebrations posed a serious security risk to the university community. She warned that the institution would no longer tolerate activities capable of undermining peace and academic order.
Students caught participating in the banned celebrations, she noted, risk severe disciplinary measures, including possible suspension or rustication, while outsiders found on campus for the same purpose could face arrest and prosecution.
Okeke assured that UNIZIK remains committed to maintaining a safe learning environment and protecting lives and property within the institution. She urged students to focus on their studies, avoid unlawful gatherings, and report any security threats or misconduct to the appropriate authorities.
