The management of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Rivers State, has banned the traditional “sign-out” celebrations for final-year students within the institution.
In a memo dated October 2, 2025, and signed by the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Chima Chibuike Wokocha, the university said the decision was taken to ensure order, discipline, and security during the final-year examinations.
The memo stated that writing on T-shirts within or around examination venues is prohibited, while students who attempt to enter exam halls with security escorts risk having their vehicles impounded. Security personnel found accompanying students will be arrested and handed over to the police. It also prohibited gatherings of final-year students after exams and warned parents and guardians to stay away from the venues. Photographers who set up platforms to capture sign-out moments were equally warned of arrest.
The university stressed that the directive is binding on all final-year students, adding that offenders will face the Students’ Disciplinary Committee.
However, the Students’ Union Government (SUG) said the sign-out culture had not been completely abolished, urging students to celebrate peacefully and responsibly so that the tradition could be sustained for future classes.
The directive has drawn mixed reactions from students and alumni. While some believe it is a step towards maintaining decorum, others say it deprives students of a valued tradition that marks the end of their academic journey.
The ban follows recent security concerns on campus. SaharaReporters had earlier reported the arrest of a police corporal and a student, both alleged cult members, accused of plotting an attack during a sign-out celebration.
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