The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has dismissed reports suggesting that its newly introduced transportation system has worsened mobility challenges within the campus.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, the institution described the circulating claims as inaccurate and misleading, insisting that the transport initiative has delivered measurable improvements.
The university explained that the intervention was made possible through the donation of 50 buses and 30 tricycles by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
According to the management, the introduction of the vehicles has significantly improved mobility, safety, and general orderliness across the campus.
“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 further noted that the previously chaotic situation associated with unregulated transport had been reduced, adding that the campus environment is now more organised and structured.
Olarewaju also emphasised that the university has become “visibly cleaner, more structured and notably serene since the deployment of the buses and tricycles.”
While acknowledging that the new system may still be adjusting, the management described any difficulties as minimal and temporary.
“These are expected teething challenges and do not, in any way, invalidate the clear and measurable gains already achieved.”
The university expressed concern over what it described as misleading narratives, noting that such claims do not reflect the actual situation on campus.
It reaffirmed its commitment to improving transportation services for students, staff, and visitors, while urging the public to rely on verified information.
The clarification comes amid recent concerns raised by the student union over transportation difficulties within the campus. The complaints led to a peaceful protest by students on Tuesday.
