The Oyo State Government has announced a ban on “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in both public and private schools across the state, saying the events have become linked to misconduct, violence, and public disturbances.
The directive was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade.
He explained that the decision was made following growing concerns about the unruly behavior associated with such activities.
Quoting the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, the statement noted:
“These sign-out events have become a source of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances. For the safety of our students and our communities, they will no longer be permitted in schools.”
Olayiwola also restated the state government’s stance on mobile phones in schools, stressing that the devices pose a major distraction to learning and can foster cyberbullying.
“Mobile phones encourage distractions and expose students to harmful content. We must not allow these risks to derail their education,” he said.
While commending principals for their commitment to raising academic standards, the Education Commissioner urged them to avoid illegal levies or unauthorized charges that could prevent access to education.
He also stressed the need for punctuality among teachers and called for schools to be safe spaces, free of bullying and intimidation.
The statement further directed principals to recommend only government-approved textbooks, adding that compliance will be closely monitored by the Ministry of Education.
In her goodwill message at the pre-resumption meeting with principals, the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Olubukola Oladipupo, appealed to school heads and teachers to seek clarification before writing petitions, assuring them that her office remains open for constructive dialogue.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye, emphasized diligence and strict adherence to rules in school management.
Representatives of education stakeholders, including the Oyo State President of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, Comrade Akinoye Christopher, and the State Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers, Comrade Raji Oladimeji, commended Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritizing the welfare of teachers. They pledged their support to ensure a smooth and impactful academic session.