The Niger State House of Assembly has urged Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to sign an executive order prohibiting sign-out celebrations in all secondary and tertiary institutions across the state.
This decision followed a motion raised by Hon. Mohammed Sani Idris, representing Tafa Constituency, who expressed concern over the celebrations’ descent into chaos, misconduct, and violence.
He noted, “what began as a harmless celebration has now become a platform for chaos, misconduct, and even violence. Some students exploit these events to settle personal scores, leading to destruction of property and disruption of academic activities.”
The lawmaker also cited recent incidents in Kontagora where sign-out celebrations turned violent, forcing two schools to abandon their final examinations after papers were torn inside examination halls.
Other lawmakers contributing to the motion highlighted the infiltration of miscreants, leading to immoral behaviour and public disturbances.
Hon. Muhammad Alhaji Haruna of Bida South Constituency said the celebrations have now “metamorphosed into a day of bazaar, gangsterism, and immoral acts”, while Hon. Murtala Badaru of Suleja Constituency noted the growing public outcry over the issue.
Deputy Speaker, Hon. Afiniki Eunice Dauda, who presided over the sitting, assured that she would work with the governor and the Ministry of Education to implement the proposed ban, referencing a previous directive in the Kontagora Emirate and emphasising the need for a statewide policy.
