The management of the Federal Polytechnic, Idah, Kogi State, has formally prohibited the widely practised sign-out ceremonies that students traditionally organise upon completing their graduation or semester examinations.
This measure, the institution emphasized, is aimed at restoring order, discipline, and decorum within the campus environment and its adjoining communities.
The announcement was contained in an official statement issued on Tuesday by the Dean of Student Affairs, F.E. Omagu, and circulated to journalists in Idah.
According to the statement, the polytechnic management decided to enforce the prohibition following recurrent incidents of unruly and disruptive behaviour by students and their invited guests during these celebrations, which have been deemed not only inappropriate but also a threat to peace and safety.
The statement detailed that the activities commonly associated with sign-out ceremonies — such as the signing of shirts, pouring of water, spraying of money, reckless driving or riding of motorcycles and vehicles, deafening noise, public disturbances, and other forms of wild jubilation — are completely banned within the campus and in areas under the polytechnic’s jurisdiction.
It reads in part: “The ban on the so-called sign-out ceremony is still in full effect. Management has observed that such events often degenerate into public disturbances, compromise the security and serenity of the institution, and encourage uncultured behaviours that tarnish the image of the polytechnic.
“Activities such as signing on shirts, pouring of water, indiscriminate spraying of cash, unruly vehicular and motorcycle displays, loud and abnormal noise-making, and any celebratory activity that disrupts public order will not be tolerated within the campus premises or in the surrounding areas under the authority of the institution.”
The polytechnic warned sternly that any student, group of students, or their external guests who attempts to flout the directive, regardless of the pretext or form, would be subjected to strict disciplinary measures. The management noted that such actions would be interpreted as a deliberate defiance of institutional authority, which would not be condoned under any circumstance.
“The management is prepared to enforce appropriate sanctions against any individual or group who dares to contravene this directive,” the statement warned. “We strongly advise students to abstain from engaging in such prohibited activities and to approach the conclusion of their academic session with maturity, calmness, and respect for the institution’s rules.”
In addition to the caution, the polytechnic congratulated all students who have successfully concluded their second-semester examinations, wishing them commendable outcomes and continued success in their academic and personal endeavours.
The management reiterated its commitment to upholding discipline, safety, and academic excellence within the institution. It assured the polytechnic community that all necessary measures will be put in place to ensure that students complete their programmes in a peaceful and conducive environment, devoid of any incidents that could disrupt public peace or the institution’s activities.