OPINION: WHEN WILL OAU VALUE THE LIVES OF HER STUDENTS?

If having two accidents in a day, or multiple ones in weeks, isn't a cause for concern, then I don't know what is.

Obafemi Awolowo University, with its many bus stops and roads, is facing an increase in dangerous road incidents. Recently, a terrible hit-and-run accident on Road 1 resulted in the loss of Chisom Nwakwo, a final-year Agricultural Economics student. This incident highlights a critical problem: the absence of surveillance cameras and traffic wardens on campus.

Despite efforts like improved street lighting, speed bumps, and clearer zebra crossings, OAU still lacks cameras on its roads and doesn't have enough traffic wardens. These tools are essential not just for managing traffic but for ensuring justice. When accidents happen, like today's tragic event where a student was killed and a motorcyclist severely injured, there’s no way to find out exactly what happened or hold anyone accountable.

Traffic wardens are scarce and mostly seen only during big events like Convocation and Matriculation. It’s noticeable that fewer or no accidents occur on these days. This suggests that their presence makes a difference and could improve everyday traffic safety.

The university has lost many talented individuals to road accidents, yet there's no sign of effective preventive measures being implemented. Installing CCTV cameras could change this. It would make drivers and motorcyclists more careful, especially those who ignore speed bumps or drive recklessly. You wouldn't imagine that some motorcyclists have found ways to evade the speed bumps. They go scot-free because there are no wardens to ensure compliance.

The problem is more than just about handling traffic; it’s about accountability. Without cameras or wardens, there's confusion and unverified stories about accidents. For example, today’s accident has led to various unconfirmed reports about the cause. This lack of clear information makes it difficult to foster justice and bring the wrongdoer to book. Imagine too many eyewitness reports on the same story. The motorcyclists protecting their own, students giving their narrative to save their colleague. Yet, nature isn't the one that caused the accident, somebody did. CCTV would serve as the neutral, unbiased reporter of the whole incident. Without cameras and active security personnel in key areas, such issues continue to occur uncontrolled.

It's sad that no amount of apologies or warnings can bring back a lost life. Therefore, it’s crucial for OAU to take proactive steps to protect its students.

Since accidents seem to be a part of life, we urge OAU Management to take immediate action to improve road safety on campus so we can forestall such tragic reoccurrences. This will not only prevent accidents but also provide a safer environment for everyone in the university community.