Kano Residents Outraged Over Sexual Harassment of Girls During Graduation ‘Candy’ Celebrations

Parents, residents, and religious leaders in Kano State have condemned a disturbing rise in sexual harassment of female students by male peers during school graduation celebrations, calling for urgent reforms and stricter enforcement by educational authorities.

Kano, Nigeria – A growing number of parents and residents in Kano State are speaking out against what they describe as a disturbing trend of sexual harassment during school graduation celebrations, known locally as “candy parties.”

Following the completion of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), many students traditionally mark the occasion by signing each other’s school uniforms. However, reports suggest some male students are using this ritual as a cover to harass their female peers.

This has sparked outrage across the state, with calls for swift action from school authorities and the Kano State Ministry of Education.

“Indecent” Acts During Celebrations Draw Criticism

Residents expressed deep concern over what they describe as “indecent” behaviour among school leavers, which they say violates Kano’s cultural and Islamic values.

“These celebrations are no longer innocent,” said Malam Yusuf Sadik Wudil, a concerned parent. “I saw a group of boys pretending to sign a girl’s shirt, but clearly using it as an excuse to touch her inappropriately. When I challenged them, they just laughed.”

Another parent, Hajiya Zainab Mohammed, said her daughter Fatima came home in tears after being harassed during her school’s graduation celebration.

“Fatima is quiet and reserved. She told me that boys surrounded her and signed on her chest with markers while touching her inappropriately,” Zainab shared. “She cried the whole day. It was traumatic for her.”

Clerics and Teachers Condemn Harassment

Islamic scholars in the state have denounced the reported incidents, calling the behavior un-Islamic and disgraceful.

“Islam upholds dignity, respect, and modesty,” said Sheikh Dalhatu Abdullahi, a prominent Kano cleric. “Any form of harassment, especially under the guise of celebration, is sinful. Parents must be vigilant, and authorities must enforce discipline.”

Amina Aliyu, a public school teacher in Kano, also condemned the acts.

“We teach these students discipline and morality, but a few of them ruin it by engaging in behavior that stains their reputation—and that of the entire state. How can it be acceptable for a boy to write on a girl’s chest in public?” she asked. “There must be strict consequences.”

Students Speak Out: Divided Views

Some students downplayed the controversy, suggesting the incidents were isolated.

“Most of us just sign shirts and take pictures,” said Abdullahi Musa, a recent male graduate. “But yes, a few guys take it too far, and it gives everyone a bad name.”

Others, however, confirmed that harassment is more widespread than some believe.

“It’s true—some of the boys went too far,” said Amina Sani, another recent graduate. “They followed us, tried to force themselves on us, and ignored our protests. We had to run away. This isn’t a joke; it’s harassment.”

Calls for Reform and Protective Measures

Community members are urging the Kano State Ministry of Education and school administrators to enforce stricter rules during graduation events, including the possible ban of shirt-signing traditions.

“If the ritual gives room for abuse, then it should be stopped,” said Malam Yusuf. “Better to ban it than allow our girls to be victimized.”

Filming Muslim Women Without Consent Also Condemned

In a related issue, Kano-based Islamic scholar Dr. Ibrahim Siraj Adhama recently condemned the rising trend of filming Muslim women without their consent for online “prank” videos. He labelled the act as “haram”, or religiously forbidden.

This comes amid rising anger from women in Kano who say their dignity and privacy are being violated by content creators looking for views.

Conclusion

The recent reports of harassment have struck a nerve in Kano—a state known for its strong cultural and religious norms. Residents, religious leaders, teachers, and students are now united in calling for immediate reforms to protect young girls and uphold decency in school celebrations.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, LEGIT