If you’re the type who goes out regularly, you would have noticed the recently installed traffic lights around UI – one at the Bodija-Sango-Ojoo junction and another just along the road way to Secretariat. The recent installation of these traffic lights around the University of Ibadan community is a development which marks a significant step toward enhancing road safety and regulating traffic flow, and it has been met with mixed reactions. The busy road around the university has long been a source of concern, with frequent traffic jams especially at the Bodija-Sango-Ojoo road junction.
As the first set of traffic lights in this area, many students are curious to see how effective they will be in alleviating these issues while others are still oblivious to its presence. While some are optimistic that the traffic lights will bring much-needed order to the bustling environment, others are sceptical about their impact, questioning whether they will be properly maintained or if drivers will adhere to the new regulations. In this vox populi, we take a closer look at what students of the University of Ibadan think about this new addition and what changes they anticipate in the university’s immediate surroundings.
Which of the newly installed traffic lights have you noticed?
Tobi: I’ve not gone outside school campus since resumption. Hence I’ve not noticed any.
Mustapha: One in front of the gate, to the right side.
Aisha: The ones around the roundabout to Bodija.
Seyi: Were there some recently installed traffic lights? I was not aware.
Qudus: The one in front of Havanna Hotel, at the roundabout leading to Bodija and Sango road.
Abdul-Azeez: That of UI Gate.
Balqees: I’ve noticed the new traffic light in front of First Bank.
When did you notice it and what was your reaction when you saw it?
Mustapha: Three weeks ago. Glad for Ibadan, a welcome development actually. Reduced congestion and more ease for pedestrians attempting to cross.
Aisha: A few weeks ago. I was actually pleasantly surprised. The traffic around that place is no joke, so it’s nice to see that something was done to control it.
Qudus: About three weeks ago. I felt amused, actually, and thought this should have been done a long time ago.
Abdul-Azeez: Last week, when I needed to go pick up a package at Sango. I was surprised! I was like “Wow! When did they install traffic light here?… It’s been a while since I’ve been out ooo.”
Hammed: Last two weeks. Nice.
Balqees: I saw it on August 7th, 2024, at 5:05 pm. I was surprised and pleased to see it.
What can you say about the level of compliance of motorists so far?
Mustapha: I’d give it 80 (percent), based on my passive observance while using the road as a pedestrian or passenger.
Aisha: I’ve seen a number of the bikers still go even after the lights turn red, but I think a good number of them actually comply with it.
Qudus: Actually, with the experience I witnessed while commuting through the area, I would say the level of compliance is 10/10, maybe because of the OYTMA (don’t know correct pronunciation) officials stationed there.
Abdul-Azeez: I have only witnessed it once and I guess the compliance was fair. Even for Micra cabs to wait for the light in the evening when there are no law enforcement agents around. So I guess it’s fair. But my one-time experience is not enough to determine compliance. I trust my people.
Hammed: Average.
Balqees: I’d rate the level of compliance by motorists a 3 out of 5.
What impact do you think this would have on UI and its environs?
Mustapha: Less occurrence of casualties due to road accidents like I mentioned earlier.
Aisha: One thing is that it’ll make it easy for students and people in general to cross the road. It should also reduce the chances of traffic accidents in the area, not that I’ve heard of so many, anyway.
Qudus: It impacts UI and its environs, depicting orderliness and giving this digitalized environment vibe. Also, it will allow for smooth movement of motorists and reduce the frequency of road accidents.
Abdul-Azeez: Somewhat classy environment. Also, there most likely won’t be unnecessary traffic if everyone complies.
Hammed: Reduced traffic and road accidents.
Balqees: I believe this new traffic light will help to reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety and promote an organized and disciplined traffic culture.
Do you have any remarks or recommendations regarding this new improvement?
Mustapha: Better enforcers to check lawbreakers. Some still go scot-free despite not following the traffic instructions. There seems to be none or, probably ineffective one.
Aisha: Not really. I think it’s a nice development overall, and the location of the lights are reasonable.
Qudus: Actually, OYTMA officials can’t be there every day to monitor the movement of transits. If a billboard or something that will enlighten people on the importance of complying with traffic light signs is installed, I think people will want to abide by the traffic light rules.
Abdul-Azeez: Not really. I’m not sure I picked how long the vehicles have to wait when the light turns red. But it shouldn’t be too long because of those doing transport business (Micra, Keke and co.)
Hammed: The law enforcement agencies should be one standby to arrest defaulters. Or a mechanism should be device to deal with defaulters like CCTV camera, this should by used by law Law enforcement agencies to monitor the proper obedience of the traffic light and arrest defaulters.
Balqees: I think it’s a great initiative, and I suggest regular maintenance checks to ensure the traffic lights are functioning properly.
As the days pass by, students and other members of the University of Ibadan Community continue to commute the routes of the newly installed traffic lights. We can only hope that recommendations are considered and necessary measures are implemented to make this new development meet up to expectations.
Shukurah Adeniyi and Oluwagbolade Ajiboro
