The Sokoto State Government has announced a total ban on all signing-out celebrations by graduating secondary school students across the state, citing rising concerns over student misconduct and public disorder.
The directive, which applies to both public and private secondary schools, was made public through an official circular issued on Thursday, July 24, by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Professor Ahmad Ladan Ala.
According to Prof Ala, the decision follows a growing number of reports linking signing-out parties to acts of vandalism, reckless behaviour, and disturbances to public peace. He said what was once a celebration of academic completion has now “degenerated into a platform for chaos and indiscipline.”
“The Ministry can no longer stand by while these activities undermine academic values and promote disorder,” Prof Ala said. “We are determined to restore discipline and ensure students graduate with a sense of responsibility and respect for the public.”
The government’s directive marks a significant policy shift, especially as signing-out traditions — often characterised by the defacing of uniforms, parades, loud music, and street displays — have become popular among school leavers in recent years.
Prof Ala warned that schools failing to enforce the ban will face sanctions, while also calling on parents, teachers and school administrators to play their part in upholding discipline and supporting the policy.
The Sokoto State Ministry of Education has reiterated its commitment to academic excellence and moral development, urging all stakeholders to ensure students transition into the next phase of their education “with dignity, not disorder.”
Comments here are solely the responsibility of the commenters