UNIZIK Bans Graduating Students’ Signing-Off Ceremonies on Campus

The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has, with immediate effect, banned all forms of orchestration, celebration, or “signing-off” activities by final-year students in connection with their final examinations on all University campuses and premises.

A statement by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Comrade Aloysius Emeka Attah, said the management’s decision was predicated on recurring incidents of chaos, violence, vandalism, and disruption of academic and administrative activities associated with such events.

“Management is also concerned about the infiltration of unauthorised persons onto campus during these activities, which poses a serious threat to the safety and security of students, staff, and University property. In fulfilment of its statutory obligation to maintain order, protect lives, and safeguard property, Management considers such activities unacceptable and a breach of University regulations.” the statement said.

The varsity spokesman disclosed that any student found to be involved in, organising, or participating in any form of “signing-off” or related activities shall be liable to severe disciplinary sanctions, including, but not limited to, rustication and withdrawal, in line with the Students’ Handbook.

“Non-students/outsiders: Any person who is not a bona fide student or staff member of the University found on University premises in connection with such activities shall be arrested and prosecuted for breach of peace, trespass, and disorderly conduct.” it added.

The University Registrar, Dr Chinenye Gloria Okeke, in an internal memo to the University community, had already communicated the directive to students, urging them to focus on their academic responsibilities.
She also asked staff, students, and members of the public to report any planned or ongoing act of misconduct to the Chief Safety Officer, the Dean of Student Affairs, or the nearest University authority for immediate action.

The University, under the watch of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bond Ugochukwu Stanley Anyaehie, remains committed to providing a safe, peaceful, and conducive environment for teaching, learning, and research in the University. Management will not tolerate any action that undermines this commitment.