By Ifeizu Joe
The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has banned with immediate effect, all forms of ‘signing-off’ celebration or activities by students to mark their final examination.
In statement signed by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Comrade Aloysius Emeka Attah and made available to journalists, the management said the decision was predicated on recurring incidents of chaos, violence, vandalism, and disruption of academic and administrative activities associated with such events.
The release read: “Management is concerned about the infiltration of unauthorized persons onto campus during these activities, which poses a serious threat to the safety and security of students, staff, and University property.
“In fulfillment of its statutory obligation to maintain order, protect lives, and safeguard property, management considers such activities unacceptable and a breach of University regulations”
“Any person who is not a bonafide student or staff of the University found on university premises in connection with such activities shall be arrested and prosecuted for breach of peace, trespass, and disorderly conduct.”
The university spokesman disclosed that any student found to be involved in, organizing, or participating in any form of “signing-off”-or related activities shall be liable to severe disciplinary sanctions, including but not limited to rustication and withdrawal in line with the Students’ Handbook.
Also, the University Registrar, Dr. Chinenye GlorIa Okeke in an internal memo to the university community had already communicated to the students to focus on their academic responsibilities and also asked staff, students, and members of the public to report any planned or ongoing act of misconduct to the Chief Safety Officer, Dean of Student Affairs, or the nearest University Authority for immediate action.
She said: “The university under the watch of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bond Ugochukwu Stanley Anyaehie remains committed to providing a safe, peaceful, and conducive environment for teaching, learning, and research in the university. Management will not tolerate any action that undermines this commitment.”
