The management of Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, has dismissed claims that a newly introduced transportation system has worsened mobility challenges within the institution.
In a statement issued by the university Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju on Wednesday, the institution said narratives suggesting the intervention had compounded transport difficulties were entirely false and misrepresented the situation on campus.
The management explained that the initiative followed the donation of 50 buses and 30 tricycles by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
According to the institution, “the introduction of the vehicles has instead led to measurable improvements in campus mobility, safety and general orderliness.”
Olarewaju, said the previously observed disorder associated with unregulated transport had been significantly reduced.
“The insinuation that this intervention has compounded transportation challenges within the University is entirely false, baseless and a gross misrepresentation of reality,” Olarewaju stated.
He added that the campus environment had become “visibly cleaner, more structured and notably serene since the deployment of the buses and tricycles.”
Olarewaju described the circulating claims as disheartening, surprising and deeply regrettable and noted that they did not reflect the true situation on ground.
The university acknowledged that, “like any new system, the transport scheme may experience initial challenges but stressed that such issues were minimal and being addressed.
“These are expected teething challenges and do not, in any way, invalidate the clear and measurable gains already achieved.”
The management reaffirmed its commitment to improving transportation services for students, staff and visitors, while urging the public to rely on verified information and support initiatives that promote safety and order.
The student union had some days earlier complained that students were experiencing burden commuting within the school campus.
This development led to a peaceful student protest on Tuesday.
As a result of the student protest, the management of the institution declared a three week mid semester break.
