ESUT Slaps N500,000 Fine on Reckless Student Drivers After Exams

(ESUT. Photo by Vanguard News)

The Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has imposed a N500,000 fine on any student who drives recklessly within and near its campus after finishing final exams.

Mr Ambrose Ugwu, ESUT’s Registrar, announced the news on Thursday while speaking to members of the university community.

Ugwu explained that the measure formed part of efforts to curb accidents and protect lives, following reckless driving by students celebrating the completion of their final examinations.

He said such reckless driving had caused persistent injuries, and urged students to leave the premises quietly after writing their examinations, warning that any vehicle impounded over the infraction would attract a penalty of N500,000. He added that the directive takes effect from July 31, coinciding with students completing their final examinations.

The registrar said the prohibition remains in force in line with a resolution passed by the Enugu State House of Assembly on the matter, noting that the directive had earlier been communicated by the state Commissioner for Education in a memo dated December 20, 2024, addressed to the institution’s Vice-Chancellor.

He warned that the university would not hesitate to take drastic action against students who violate the directive, reiterating that any vehicle impounded for reckless driving would not be released until the owner pays the N500,000 penalty, while affected students would face additional disciplinary sanctions in accordance with the institution’s regulations.

Ugwu further stated that the directive mandates all deans, directors and heads of department to sensitise and caution their final-year students to comply strictly with the measure.

He added that the university’s chief security officer, alongside other law enforcement agencies, has been instructed to remain vigilant and ensure law and order are maintained across the campus, urging members of the university community to act accordingly and comply fully with the directive.

He reaffirmed that the institution remains committed to enforcing the ban in order to safeguard lives and property on campus.