The Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT, has announced a N500,000 penalty for students caught driving recklessly within and around the university after completing their final examinations.
The directive, which takes effect from July 31, is aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring that celebrations marking the end of final examinations do not endanger lives or damage property.
Speaking to members of the university community on Thursday, the institution’s Registrar, Ambrose Ugwu, said the decision followed growing concerns over the dangerous manner in which some graduating students celebrate after writing their last examination papers.
According to him, reckless driving during post-examination celebrations has become a serious safety challenge, resulting in repeated cases of injuries within the university environment.
He advised students to leave the campus peacefully after completing their examinations rather than engaging in risky driving or other activities capable of putting themselves and others in danger.
Under the new policy, any vehicle seized for reckless driving will only be released after the owner pays a penalty of N500,000. The university also warned that the financial sanction would not replace disciplinary measures, as students found violating the directive could face additional punishment under the institution’s regulations.
The management said the policy reflects its commitment to protecting lives, preserving order and ensuring that the university remains a safe environment for learning and academic activities.
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University Says Directive Has Government Backing
ESUT explained that the enforcement of the new measure is not an isolated decision but one that aligns with directives already issued by the Enugu State Government.
The Registrar noted that the prohibition is in line with a resolution of the Enugu State House of Assembly on the issue of reckless driving involving students.
He also disclosed that the state Commissioner for Education had previously communicated the directive to the university through an official memo dated December 20, 2024, which was addressed to the Vice Chancellor.
To ensure effective implementation, the university has instructed all deans, directors and heads of departments to educate final-year students about the new rule before they complete their examinations.
In addition, the institution has directed its Chief Security Officer to work closely with other law enforcement agencies to monitor activities across the campus and enforce compliance throughout the examination period.
The university stressed that all members of the campus community should cooperate with the directive and support efforts to maintain peace, safety and discipline within the institution.
Management maintained that it would not hesitate to enforce the penalty against anyone found violating the regulation, adding that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority.
Back Story
Celebrations after final examinations have become a common tradition in many Nigerian universities, with graduating students often expressing excitement over completing several years of academic work.
While many of these celebrations are peaceful, some have involved dangerous driving, speeding, loud processions and other forms of conduct that have raised safety concerns for university authorities.
Several higher institutions across the country have introduced stricter measures in recent years to discourage activities capable of causing accidents or disrupting academic environments.
University administrators have repeatedly argued that graduation celebrations should be memorable without exposing students, staff or visitors to unnecessary risks. As a result, many institutions now combine awareness campaigns with disciplinary measures to encourage responsible behaviour during the final days of each academic session.
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Students Encouraged to Celebrate Responsibly
ESUT has urged students approaching graduation to celebrate their achievements in ways that reflect maturity and respect for the university community.
The institution believes completing a university education is a significant milestone deserving of celebration, but insists that such celebrations must never compromise public safety.
By combining financial penalties with disciplinary sanctions, the university hopes to discourage reckless conduct while promoting a culture of responsibility among graduating students.
The management also appealed to staff, student leaders and security personnel to play active roles in educating students and ensuring compliance with the new directive.
With thousands of students expected to conclude their examinations in the coming weeks, the university says it will remain firm in enforcing the policy. It expressed confidence that the measure will reduce avoidable accidents, protect lives and create a safer environment for everyone on campus.
The report was made available by the News Agency of Nigeria.
