Ile-Ife, April 14, 2026 — The Transformative Governance Forum (TGF) has criticised the management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) over what it described as a poorly executed transport reform that has triggered hardship for students across the campus.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, the group said the ongoing transport challenges at the university stem not from policy intent but from what it called “administrative incompetence and lack of planning.”
The controversy follows the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses donated by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, aimed at easing transportation for students. However, the situation escalated after the university reportedly banned commercial buses and motorcycles, traditionally relied upon by students for mobility within the expansive campus.
According to the TGF, the absence of a clear implementation framework has resulted in long queues, delayed lectures, and increased transport fares, with some students reportedly paying as much as ₦400 per trip—contrary to the relief the initiative was meant to provide.
“The problem is not the First Lady’s gesture, but the failure of the university administration to develop a workable plan,” the statement noted, adding that critical elements such as stakeholder engagement, demand analysis, and phased implementation were ignored.
The group identified what it termed three major governance failures: lack of consultation with students and transport operators, inadequate capacity planning for the new bus system, and insensitivity to student welfare.
It further argued that the outright ban on commercial transport alternatives without ensuring the readiness of the new system created artificial scarcity, worsening the situation for the university’s over 30,000 students.
The TGF also pointed to a growing disconnect between government intentions and institutional execution, warning that poorly implemented policies risk undermining public trust.
As part of its recommendations, the Forum urged the university management and Senate to immediately suspend the ban on commercial motorcycles and buses, pending a comprehensive review involving the Student Union and other stakeholders.
It also advised that the newly introduced CNG buses be integrated as a supplement rather than a replacement to existing transport systems.
Meanwhile, the group expressed support for the Student Union’s response, including a reported two-day lecture boycott, describing it as a legitimate reaction to policy failure rather than an act of defiance.
“The students have been failed by an administration that did not consult or prioritise their welfare,” the statement added.
The Forum warned that failure to address the situation promptly could further escalate tensions on campus, urging authorities to adopt a more inclusive and data-driven approach to governance.
The development has sparked widespread debate within the academic community, with many observers calling for urgent reforms to restore efficiency and uphold the institution’s long-standing reputation for excellence.
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