Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK), has placed an indefinite ban on the popular “signing off” celebrations by final-year students, citing recurring cases of violence, disruption, and security threats linked to the activities.
In an internal memorandum signed by the Registrar, Dr. Chinenye Gloria Okeke, the university announced that all forms of “signing off” orchestration on campus are prohibited with immediate effect.
Management explained that the decision was necessary following repeated incidents of chaos, vandalism, and the intrusion of unauthorized persons during the events, which posed risks to the safety of students, staff, and the broader university community.
“Any student found to be involved in or participating in any form of ‘signing off’ orchestration or related activities risks severe disciplinary measures, including but not limited to rustication,” the memo warned.
The university further noted that outsiders caught entering the campus to partake in such activities would face arrest and prosecution for disorderly conduct.
Dr. Okeke emphasized the institution’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for academic pursuits and urged students to focus on their studies while reporting any threats to safety.
The ban marks a major clampdown on a long-standing tradition among graduating students, who typically use the occasion to celebrate the completion of their final examinations with graffiti, sprays, and group gatherings across campus.
