UNIZIK Students Sent Out Of Campus For Defying Ban On ‘Signing-Off’
Students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, were on Thursday forced out of the campus by security operatives after they were caught participating in the recently banned “signing-off” activities.
The exercise, a long-standing tradition where final-year students sign shirts and celebrate after their last examinations, was outlawed by the institution’s management earlier in the week.
The decision to prohibit the practice came after growing concerns over indiscipline, rowdiness, and security risks linked to such gatherings in past years. In a statement issued by the registrar, the management stressed that the ban was indefinite and effective immediately, warning that students who flouted the directive would face disciplinary actions. According to the university, the measure was taken to safeguard lives and property within the campus.
Despite the clear warning, some students were seen engaging in the exercise after finishing their examinations. Security personnel swiftly intervened, dispersing the crowd and sending students out of the premises.
Eyewitness reports confirmed that a number of students were arrested, an incident that was captured on video and widely circulated on social media platforms.
The development has sparked mixed reactions. While some parents and observers have applauded the management for taking steps to maintain order, many students have criticised the move, describing it as heavy-handed and unnecessary.
To them, the signing-off ritual is an important passage that marks the end of their academic journey and should not be erased.
UNIZIK has, however, maintained its stance, insisting that the ban will remain in place until further notice. The university also urged students to seek more peaceful and constructive ways of celebrating their academic milestones without jeopardising order and security on campus.
