Delta Threatens Sanctions Over End-of-Session Graduation Parties

The Delta State Government has renewed its ban on graduation parties and other end-of-session celebrations in private schools, warning that defaulters risk severe sanctions, including suspension of operations or outright closure.

The warning comes as schools across the state begin preparations for the end of the academic session, with education authorities insisting that elaborate graduation ceremonies and related levies impose unnecessary financial burdens on parents and guardians.

The directive was recently reiterated in a message circulated among school proprietors and administrators, reportedly from the office of the Commissioner for Secondary Education, emphasizing that “graduation parties or whatever name they are tagged” remain prohibited in Delta State.

A private school proprietress in Uvwie Local Government Area, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that the policy had earlier been communicated to schools by the local Chief Inspector of Education (CIE), dismissing claims that the latest message was unauthorised or fake.

The government's renewed stance is in line with measures introduced to curb what it describes as exploitative practices within the education sector.

In September 2025, the then Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, announced a statewide ban on elaborate graduation ceremonies in private schools, describing the practice as an avoidable financial strain on families.

She warned at the time that schools imposing graduation levies or organizing extravagant celebrations would face sanctions from the state government.

Beyond graduation ceremonies, education authorities have also moved to address other practices believed to increase the cost of schooling, including frequent changes of textbooks, multiple school uniforms, and various additional charges imposed by some private institutions.

Officials argued that such practices contribute significantly to the rising cost of education and place undue pressure on parents already struggling with economic challenges.

Education stakeholders noted that Delta State joins several other states that have introduced restrictions on graduation ceremonies, particularly for nursery, kindergarten, primary, and junior secondary school pupils.

According to stakeholders, the policy is designed to make education more affordable, enforce standards in schools, and redirect attention from costly social events to academic excellence and learning outcomes.

Although the Delta State Government is yet to issue a fresh public circular on the latest warning, several school administrators have reportedly begun notifying parents and staff members of the directive ahead of the end-of-session activities.

The government reiterated its commitment to protecting parents from excessive financial demands and ensuring that schools operate within approved educational standards.