By Joy Oghenemine Uloho

In response to growing concerns about student safety on campus, particularly when using cabs at night, the University of Benin (UNIBEN) is taking steps to implement a cab registration system. This initiative aims to ensure that only authorized and recognised cabs operate within the campus premises. Each registered cab will be assigned a unique identification tag, which will be a yellow plastic tag bearing a specific number.

The decision to compulsorily implement cab registration comes in light of several incidents involving cab drivers and students, especially females at night. Several cases of rape and robbery have been reported, begging the urgency to address this issue. One recent incident involved a student who was robbed and physically assaulted after boarding a cab at night, with a male stranger in it. According to her account to UNIBEN crime office, the cab driver later picked up two additional passengers at UNIBEN Microfinance Bank junction and Clinical hostel before taking her to Adolor, where her mobile phone was taken with force.

These distressing reports, including the aforementioned incident, have prompted the university administration to make cab registration mandatory. Students are also strongly advised to exercise caution, particularly when moving at night. By implementing this measure, UNIBEN aims to enhance the safety and security of its students during cab journeys within the campus.

The university security officials are currently implementing other necessary actions to ensure safety within campus. This can be seen, as more security officials have been spotted at the various gates around the Ugbowo Campus questioning suspicious movements and discouraging loitering.

Support ACJ UNIBEN's goal of always bringing truth to light.

Excellent campus journalism requires financial support. Yet, it is this very journalism that contributes to an informed campus community, transparency in educational institutions, and an engaged student body. To continue offering free access to top-notch campus journalism, we invite you to consider making a modest contribution to this worthwhile endeavor. Your support for ACJ UNIBEN's campus journalism ensures its relevance and availability to all students, free of charge, fostering an informed and active campus community.

DONATE