The Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has announced a N500,000 penalty for students caught driving recklessly within or around the university after completing their final examinations.
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‎The directive was made public by the university’s Registrar, Ambrose Ugwu, during a meeting with members of the university community on Thursday. He explained that the decision was aimed at preventing accidents and safeguarding lives, following repeated cases of dangerous driving by students celebrating the end of their examinations.
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‎Ugwu urged graduating students to leave the campus in an orderly manner after writing their papers, warning that any vehicle impounded for reckless driving would only be released after payment of the N500,000 fine.
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‎According to him, the enforcement takes effect from July 31 and specifically targets students concluding their final examinations on that date.
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‎He noted that the policy aligns with a resolution of the Enugu State House of Assembly and follows an earlier directive contained in a memo issued by the state Commissioner for Education on December 20, 2024, to the university’s Vice-Chancellor.
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‎The registrar stressed that the institution would strictly enforce the directive, adding that students found violating the rule would not only pay the prescribed fine but also face disciplinary action in accordance with the university’s regulations.
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‎Ugwu further directed all deans, directors and heads of departments to sensitise final-year students on the new measure and ensure strict compliance.
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‎He also instructed the university’s Chief Security Officer, alongside relevant law enforcement agencies, to intensify surveillance across the campus to maintain law and order.
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‎Reaffirming the institution’s commitment to protecting lives and property, the registrar urged all members of the university community to comply fully with the directive.
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‎(NAN)
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