The Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has announced a strict penalty regime for unsafe driving practices by graduating students, with offenders facing a N500,000 fine as the institution moves to prevent accidents during end-of-session celebrations.
The university’s latest measure, which became effective on Friday, July 31, 2026, was introduced in response to concerns over reckless vehicle displays and dangerous driving often associated with the period students complete their final examinations.
ESUT Registrar, Ambrose Ugwu, said the institution had taken the decision to protect lives and maintain order within and around the campus, noting that previous incidents of irresponsible driving had resulted in injuries.
The university warned that any vehicle seized for violating the directive would remain impounded until the prescribed N500,000 penalty was paid. Beyond the fine, students involved would also be subjected to disciplinary action under the institution’s existing regulations.
The enforcement, according to the registrar, is tied to a resolution of the Enugu State House of Assembly and a directive communicated to the university by the Enugu State Ministry of Education in a memorandum dated December 20, 2024.
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The move comes against the backdrop of increasing safety concerns surrounding end-of-academic-programme celebrations in tertiary institutions, where some students engage in risky activities ranging from excessive vehicle displays to dangerous driving.
In recent years, authorities and school administrators across the country have intensified warnings against such practices following incidents of injuries and fatalities linked to graduation celebrations.
To ensure strict compliance, ESUT has directed deans, directors and heads of departments to educate final-year students on the new measures before they conclude their examinations.
The university’s Chief Security Officer has also been mandated to work with relevant security agencies to monitor activities within and around the campus and enforce the directive.
ESUT said the policy reflects its commitment to creating a safer academic environment, stressing that any student found engaging in reckless driving would face the full consequences of the new regulation.