By AdeJesu
The University of Benin (UNIBEN) has been grappling with ongoing issues surrounding cab transport services within its campus. The UNIBEN Student Union Government (SUG) Parliament recently passed a memo to regulate the operations of cab drivers within the institution. However, clashes arose between some SUG Parliament members and cab drivers who were found in violation of the school’s regulations.
In response to the recurring concerns about cab transport, the SUG Parliament introduced regulations governing cab services on campus. According to the SUG Welfare, Nnamdi Success, the agreed-upon terms stipulated that cabs could carry a maximum of three passengers and charge each passenger 100 naira for destinations within the school’s vicinity. This arrangement aimed to ensure fair and affordable transport for students.
On the 20th of July, 2023, a confrontation occurred between some members of the SUG Parliament and cab drivers at the Faculty car park. The parliamentarians were seen engaging in discussions with the drivers to ensure compliance with the established rules.
According to Nnamdi Success, the cab drivers were aware of the regulations yet were found in violation. One particular incident involved a cab carrying four passengers, three in the back and one in the front, charging each passenger 150 naira instead of the agreed-upon 100 naira. Additionally, the driver levied an unauthorized fee of 50 naira for carrying extra luggage. These actions constituted two offenses under the school’s regulations.
In response to the cab driver’s transgressions, Nnamdi Success stated that a new agreement, reflecting the recent fuel price hike, was reached. The revised terms now mandate each passenger to pay 150 naira, while cabs are still restricted to carrying a maximum of three passengers: two in the back and one in the front. The SUG Parliament plans to issue a memo to this effect.
To curb further violations and set an example, the erring cab driver involved in the recent incident was fined 15,000 naira. This penalty serves as a deterrent to other drivers and aims to promote adherence to the university’s regulations.
The issue of cab drivers flouting the rules has been a source of inconvenience and exploitation for students. This incident has highlighted the need for a more concerted effort in resolving the problem. The SUG Parliament’s actions are commendable, but there remains a need for ongoing vigilance and further measures to ensure the smooth operation of cab services on campus.
Students are encouraged to be aware of their rights and report any instances of violation or oppression. The issuance of the awaited memo is eagerly anticipated as a step towards resolving the matter permanently.