The Kwara State Polytechnic (Kwara Poly) Students’ Union Government (SUG) has recently announced the temporary suspension of tricycle services, commonly referred to as “Keke” services, within the school campus. This decision comes in response to various challenges that have emerged in the management and operation of these services, and it aims to address concerns raised by both students and the school administration.

Reasons for the Suspension

Several factors led to the SUG’s decision to temporarily halt tricycle operations on campus. Key among these are:

1. Safety Concerns: Over time, there have been increasing reports of reckless driving, traffic congestion, and minor accidents involving tricycles on campus. These incidents have raised concerns about the safety of students and staff who rely on the services for quick transport within the campus.
2. Unjustified increase in fare: The new fee structure from the previous N100 to the current N200 is exorbitant and unaffordable to the average student.
3. Exploitation: Security challenges associated with tricycle services have also been cited as a reason for the suspension. Instances of theft and unregulated entry into the campus by non-students have been linked to the free access that tricycle operators had within the campus. Students are being unfairly targeted and exploited as they rely on Keke Napep as their main mode of transport on campus.
4. Lack of consideration: The fare increase does not take into account the current economic situation of students and some employees of the polytechnic.

SUG’s Official Statement

The Students’ Union Government, in their official statement says: “Given these concerns, we strongly encourage all students to avoid  Keke Napep operators on campus until this issue is resolved. Please be assured that the Student Representative Council is actively working with the operator, campus authorities and relevant stakeholders to negotiate a fair and reasonable solution. Your safety and health is our number one priority. We appreciate your cooperation as we work towards a resolution. An update on this matter will be released in due course. thank you very much”.

The SUG acknowledged the importance of tricycles as a convenient mode of transport for students, but stressed that the current situation requires proper regulation before services can resume.

Alternative Transport for Students

In the meantime, students are encouraged to explore alternative means of transport, such as walking or using bicycles, to move around campus. The SUG has assured students that steps are being taken to minimize inconvenience during the suspension period.

Resumption of Services

The SUG has not yet provided a specific date for the resumption of tricycle services but has assured students that once the necessary regulatory measures are in place, operations will resume. Regular updates will be provided to keep the student body informed about the progress being made.

While the temporary suspension of tricycle services may cause short-term inconvenience for students and staff, it is clear that the move is intended to promote safety, security, and orderliness on Kwara Poly’s campus. The SUG’s proactive approach to addressing these challenges reflects their commitment to ensuring a better environment for everyone. Students are urged to remain patient and cooperate with the authorities as the necessary reforms are implemented.

Stay tuned for further updates from the SUG on the matter!