There was pandemonium at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, UNIZIK, Awka, on Thursday after the institution moved to enforce its ban on the popular post-examination “signing off” tradition among final-year students.
In a now viral video shared by Facebook user Okwa C. Ifugo, two yet-to-be-identified female students were sent out of the campus building premises for wearing shirts scribbled with markers.
Chronicle NG reports that the management of the institution banned final-year students from participating in examination signing off.
According to a press release on Tuesday signed by Dr Chinenye Okeke, UNIZIK registrar, the ban takes immediate effect.
Okeke blamed chaos, violence, and disruption of normal university activities as the reasons behind the directive.
The statement read in part, “The university management wishes to inform you that, effective immediately, all forms of orchestration (‘signing off’) related to final examinations by final-year students are completely and indefinitely banned from the university premises. This decision responds to recurring incidents of chaos, violence, and disruption associated with these events.
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“Furthermore, the presence of unauthorised individuals on campus poses a threat to the safety and security of students, staff, and the broader university community. In fulfilment of its obligation to maintain order, protect life, and safeguard property, the university management has taken this decisive step, deeming such activities unacceptable.
“Any student found involved in orchestration (‘signing off’) or related activities risks severe disciplinary measures, including rustication. Any outsiders entering the university premises to support such activities may face arrest and prosecution for disorderly conduct and breach of peace.”
Okeke assured that the management of UNIZIK remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for academic pursuits and will not tolerate actions undermining this commitment.
“We urge all students to focus on their academic responsibilities and report any instances of misconduct or threats to safety to the appropriate authorities,” the statement added.
