UNILORIN Implements Strict Ride-Hailing Ban, Students Decry Mobility Crisis
The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has implemented a controversial policy restricting all private ride-hailing vehicles, including popular services like Bolt, Uber, and inDrive, from accessing its campus premises. This decision, which took effect immediately after the January 2025 resumption, has sparked widespread frustration among students who report significant disruptions to their daily academic routines and campus mobility.
Immediate Impact on Student Movement and Academic Activities
Under the new regulations, only vehicles registered under verified university staff or students and displaying valid UNILORIN identification cards are permitted to enter the campus. This abrupt policy change has created immediate logistical challenges, with students reporting long queues forming daily at campus gates as thousands now depend exclusively on the university's shuttle bus system.
Students have expressed particular concern about the academic consequences of this restriction. One student recounted missing a crucial test on January 7th, the very first day of implementation, stating: "I had a test by 10 AM, but I was still at the gate by 11 AM because the Bolt driver wasn't allowed to enter. We weren't properly informed about this change; they just implemented the rule suddenly. It was incredibly frustrating."
Student Perspectives on the Transportation Alternatives
Before the ban, many students had developed practical solutions to the university's transportation challenges. A common practice involved multiple students sharing ride-hailing vehicles, making the cost comparable to regular bus fares while significantly reducing travel time and stress. "Four students would enter one car, and what each person pays is almost the same as bus fare, but it's faster and less stressful," explained one student interviewed about the previous arrangement.
Students have questioned both the timing and rationale behind the policy implementation. "Are we babies?" one student asked rhetorically. "Is it their money? Why is paying for our comfort an issue to them? I really want to understand the thought process behind such a rash decision. We're not in secondary school anymore."
University's Official Position and Safety Concerns
University officials have defended the decision, citing safety concerns and the need for proper regulation of transportation services on campus. A senior UNILORIN administrator stated: "Please be informed that a thorough review of their operations is underway following allegations of misconduct. We remain committed to maintaining campus safety and cleanliness through appropriate measures."
The official emphasized that the restriction forms part of broader efforts to enhance security protocols and ensure orderly movement within the university environment. However, this explanation has done little to alleviate student concerns about the practical implications of the policy.
Inadequacy of Alternative Transportation Options
Students have raised serious questions about the capacity of the university's existing transportation system to accommodate the increased demand. Many have specifically criticized the newly introduced Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses as insufficient for the student population's needs. "The five CNG buses they brought cannot adequately serve all the students," noted one concerned student. "I don't understand why the administration would implement policies that negatively impact students' daily lives."
The emotional toll of the new arrangement has been significant, with students using strong language to express their dissatisfaction. "Omoh, the thing pain me óò," lamented one student, capturing the widespread sentiment of frustration. Another added: "I think they just deliberately want all of us to face that unfair ordeal of queueing for extended periods before entering campus."
Broader Economic Implications
The policy has created ripple effects beyond student inconvenience, significantly impacting ride-hailing drivers who previously relied on campus trips for substantial portions of their daily income. Many drivers now drop passengers at the school gates, leaving students to navigate the remaining distance on foot or wait in queues for university shuttles.
This situation has created additional pressure points at campus entry points, where students must now transfer between transportation modes, further complicating their daily commutes and increasing the likelihood of academic disruptions.
Looking Forward: Student Demands and Institutional Response
As the situation continues to develop, students are calling for more transparent communication from university administration and practical solutions that balance safety concerns with reasonable mobility options. Many have suggested that instead of an outright ban, the university could implement a regulated system for ride-hailing services that addresses security concerns while preserving convenient transportation alternatives.
The ongoing review of ride-hailing operations mentioned by university officials suggests that the current policy might be subject to modification based on findings and stakeholder feedback. However, for now, students must navigate the challenges of reduced transportation options while managing their academic responsibilities under increasingly difficult circumstances.
