Oyo State Government has officially banned “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private secondary schools across the state.
This directive comes in response to increasing reports of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances associated with such events
“Sign out” celebrations, where final-year secondary school students mark their last day with processions, writing on uniforms, loud gatherings, and sometimes street displays, have become common in many Nigerian states over the years.
While often seen as a rite of passage, the practice has also been linked to unruly behavior, vandalism, accidents, and public disturbances.
Oyo State’s decision to enforce a ban aligns with these concerns and comes amid wider efforts to strengthen discipline in schools, including restrictions on mobile phone use, monitoring of approved textbooks, and curbing illegal levies.
The move also reflects the government’s emphasis on student welfare, safety, and the preservation of a conducive learning environment.
The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, disclosed this during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with public secondary schools’ principals, held at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan, on Friday.
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Olayiwola, in a statement by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, in Ibadan, the state capital, also reiterated the enforcement of the existing ban on mobile phone usage by students in schools.
He emphasized that such devices pose significant distractions, facilitate access to non-educational content, and can contribute to cyberbullying and misconduct.
The commissioner said, “Schools must remain free of violence, bullying, and intimidation to protect adolescents during their formative years.
“The State Government is using this period to officially ban “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private secondary schools across the state. This directive comes in response to increasing reports of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances associated with such events.
“In addition, principals are directed to recommend only government-approved textbooks, selected for their quality, reusability, and alignment with the curriculum. Compliance with these directives will be closely monitored by the ministry,” he warned.
The commissioner also commended principals for their dedication to shaping young minds and maintaining educational standards in the state.
He stressed that no student should face financial barriers in pursuit of education, and principals must avoid unauthorized levies or illegal fees to ensure education remains accessible.
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