The Oyo State Government has imposed an immediate ban on “sign out” celebrations by graduating students in all public and private secondary schools across the state.
The decision, authorities said, was prompted by growing concerns over misconduct, violence and public disorder often linked to the end of session festivities.
Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Olusegun Olayiwola, announced the ban during the 2025/2026 pre resumption meeting with principals of public secondary schools held at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan.
He said the state could no longer overlook the disruptive nature of such events, which he described as increasingly chaotic and a threat to public safety.
“The Ministry will not tolerate activities that jeopardise the safety of students, staff and the wider community,” Olayiwola said.
In addition to the ban, the commissioner reaffirmed the existing prohibition on the use of mobile phones by students within school premises. According to him, mobile devices are a major source of distraction, exposure to inappropriate content, and incidents of cyberbullying and other forms of misconduct.
Commending principals for their continued dedication to academic excellence, Olayiwola warned against the imposition of unauthorised levies and illegal charges, stressing that no student should be denied access to education due to financial constraints.
He further charged school heads to ensure staff punctuality and active participation in the teaching and learning process, noting that discipline and diligence remain key to a functional educational system.
“Schools must remain safe spaces for learning, free from violence, bullying and intimidation. These formative years are critical, and we must ensure students are protected,” he said.
The commissioner also directed principals to recommend only government approved textbooks that meet national curriculum standards in content, quality and durability.
He said the Ministry would intensify monitoring to ensure full compliance with all policies.
In her goodwill message, Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Mrs Olubukola Oladipupo, advised principals and teachers to seek proper clarification before submitting petitions, pledging continued engagement to resolve issues and improve service delivery in the education sector.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs Bamidele Oyinloye, in her welcome address, emphasised the importance of discipline, diligence and strict adherence to official guidelines in school administration.
Present at the meeting were key stakeholders, including the Oyo State President of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Comrade Akinoye Christopher, and the State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Raji Oladimeji.
Both praised Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritising teachers’ welfare and pledged continued collaboration towards a successful academic year.
