In a strategic move to stabilize transportation services within the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) community, the Great Ife Students’ Union Transport Management Commission has reached a resolution with the leadership of campus motorcycle (Okada) riders. The meeting, which was held earlier this week at the Ken Saro-Wiwa Building, culminated in a firm agreement to enforce standardized fare rates across the university environment.
The meeting, held on Monday, brought together members of the Transport Management Commission and the heads of the Okada riders’ association operating within the campus and its adjoining communities. According to a statement released by the Commission on Friday, June 27, 2025, discussions were constructive and focused primarily on resolving concerns over inconsistent pricing and rider misconduct.
A key outcome of the dialogue was the riders’ leadership acknowledging the presence of operators who do not adhere to agreed transport rates. In response, they pledged to activate their internal taskforce to identify, caution, and penalize non-compliant riders going forward. The Transport Commission emphasized the importance of this action in curbing exploitation and protecting students’ welfare.
In the statement signed by Hon. Fatoyinbo Azeez Gbolahan (Hon. AZ), Chairman of the Transport Management Commission, the Commission reiterated its operational status despite the recent dissolution of several Students’ Union committees and councils. “The Transport Management Commission was not dissolved alongside others to avoid disrupting essential transport services,” the statement clarified.
The Commission further reassured the student body that it remains committed to advocating for the interests of all Great Ife students. Students have been encouraged to report any cases of overcharging, harassment, or rider misconduct to the Commission using the official contact channels provided. The Commission also pledged to respond promptly to complaints and enforce discipline where necessary.
In a chat with The Nigeria Education News, Hon. Olateru Olagbegi Olagoriade (Hon. Gori), the Commission’s Public Relations Officer, emphasized that maintaining price stability was non-negotiable. “We agreed with the riders to respect fixed prices, especially during peak periods or emergencies. Any rider found breaching this will face sanctions,” he said.
Hon. Adewoyin Feranmi (Hon. Feran), Secretary of the Commission, also highlighted the importance of collaboration between students and the Commission to achieve an accountable transportation system. He stressed that the Commission was actively monitoring developments and would not hesitate to intervene where student interests are threatened.
The leadership of the Okada riders expressed appreciation for the Union’s approach and affirmed their readiness to work in harmony with the Transport Management Commission. They emphasized that their operations depend on trust and student patronage, which could only be sustained through fairness and consistency.
The Commission concluded the statement with the popular Union chant, “Aluta Continua! Victoria Ascerta!” a signal of its unwavering dedication to student advocacy and service delivery. The Transport Management Commission called on all students to remain vigilant and report any transportation-related anomalies.
As campus activities continue to peak with the close of examinations and preparations for the transition of Union leadership, transport regulation remains a key priority.
