The Management of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI), has intervened in the dispute between the Students’ Union leadership and transport operators plying the campus route over the recent increase in transportation fares. The disagreement arose following the decision by the drivers to raise the transport fare to the University from three hundred naira (₦300) to five hundred naira (₦500) per trip.
To address the concerns raised by students, the University Management convened a meeting involving representatives of the Students’ Union and leaders of the various transport unions operating on the campus route.
Speaking at the meeting, the Students’ Union President, Comrade Sanya Ifeoluwa Amos, expressed the dissatisfaction of the student body over the increase, urging the transport operators to adopt a more considerate pricing structure that reflects the prevailing economic challenges faced by many students.
He described the fare hike as an unfortunate development that had placed additional financial pressure on the student population.
In their responses, the General Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Mr. Kunle Ekundayo, and the General Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Mr. Olajide Olawale, attributed the adjustment in fares to rising fuel prices and increasing operational costs. They explained that the increment was necessary to enable drivers sustain their services, while appealing to the students for understanding and cooperation.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Babatunde Omojola, who appealed for calm, emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding between the students and the transport unions. He reaffirmed the commitment of the University Management to the welfare of all members of the University community.
Professor Omojola therefore urged both parties to work towards a fair and workable resolution that would balance the interests of the students and the transport providers.
Following extensive deliberations facilitated by the University Management, the Students’ Union executives agreed that a fare of four hundred naira (₦400) per trip would be acceptable. They also appealed that the agreed fare should remain stable even in the event of future increases in fuel pump prices.
The leadership of the transport unions accepted the compromise, and both parties agreed to maintain peace and harmonious relations within the University community.
