Joseph Tarka Varsity Seeks Stakeholders’ Support For ‘Signing Out’ Ban

Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JOSTUM), has reiterated its ban on final-year students ” signing out” and called on parents, guardians, staff and security personnel to help the authorities enforce it.

The university Senate, which outlawed the practice on 15th February, 2025, said the federal government has reinforced the ban in all Nigerian tertiary institutions.

In a press statement signed by Registrar and Secretary to Senate, Dr. John U. David, the management said the so-called “signing out” had been found to contradict the university culture and values.

David says it encourages students to engage in undignified practices such as scribbling on clothes and disorderly conduct. It promotes noise, excessive partying, and unsafe behaviours that undermine both the dignity of graduates and the reputation of the University.

“The primary concern of the university administration is to ensure that students graduate with dignity and decorum. Unfortunately, the ‘signing out’ activities have been observed to tarnish this dignity with messy and unsafe displays by final year students.”

The university warned students to desist from such practices or face disciplinary measures, including suspension, rustication, or withholding of results and certificates.

“We will not hesitate to apply sanctions where necessary. Staff and security personnel have also been directed to enforce full compliance across the campus.”

Parents and guardians were also urged not to support their wards in showcasing immorality on the altar of excitement and fun. Instead, the university appealed for their cooperation in safeguarding student safety and preserving campus security. “We are counting on all stakeholders to join hands with us to uphold discipline and protect the good image of JOSTUM,” the statement noted.

Meanwhile, students have been advised to vacate hostels immediately after their examinations. “We wish all our students success in their second semester examinations and, in particular, final year students a smooth and dignified exit from the system,” the registrar added.