The Niger State House of Assembly has urged Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago to issue an executive order banning sign-out celebrations in all secondary and tertiary institutions in the state. The call follows rising concerns over violence, misconduct, and disruption linked to these events.
The issue was raised by Hon. Mohammed Sani Idris, representing Tafa Constituency, who explained that what started as harmless end-of-year celebrations have now turned into chaotic occasions. “Some students exploit these events to settle personal scores, causing destruction and disrupting exams,” he said.
Recent violent incidents in Kontagora were highlighted, where two schools had to abandon their final exams after exam papers were torn during the celebrations. Other lawmakers supported the motion, saying the celebrations have been taken over by miscreants and have become a source of immoral behaviour.
Hon. Muhammad Alhaji Haruna of Bida South Constituency described the celebrations as “a day of bazaar, gangsterism, and immoral acts.” Meanwhile, Hon. Murtala Badaru of Suleja Constituency pointed to the growing public concern about the disorder.
Deputy Speaker, Hon. Afiniki Eunice Dauda, who led the session, assured the assembly that she would work closely with the governor and the Ministry of Education to enforce the ban. She referenced a similar directive already issued in the Kontagora Emirate and stressed the need for a state-wide policy to end the disruptions.
Sign-out celebrations mark the end of the academic year for students, but growing reports of violence and disorder have made the celebrations a serious concern for Niger State’s education system and communities.
