The Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has banned graduation ceremonies and end-of-session parties across public and private schools in the state, citing concerns over alleged extortion of parents and guardians.
According to a circular issued on Wednesday and signed by A.A. Bisiriyu, Director of Education, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, schools were found to be imposing various charges on parents under the guise of organising celebratory events.
The directive, addressed to all school administrators, stated that the ministry had received reports of compulsory payments linked to graduation and end-of-session parties.
It noted that the practice violates resolutions reached at the 2025/2026 pre-resumption stakeholders’ meeting held in September 2025 at Lisabi Grammar School Hall, Abeokuta.
The circular read that the state government disapproves of graduation or end-of-session ceremonies for all classes in both public and private schools.
It further ordered that no school owner should organise such events going forward, warning that any institution found in breach would face sanctions.
The ministry also directed education stakeholders to ensure wide dissemination of the circular for full compliance across schools.
