Students Protest Renaming of Polytechnic Ibadan to Honour Late Governor Olunloyo
Tension rose in Ibadan on Tuesday as students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan staged a mass protest against the recent renaming of their institution to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic. The decision, made by Governor Seyi Makinde to honour the late former governor of Oyo State, sparked outrage among students who believe the move disrespects the school’s legacy.
The demonstration caused a halt in academic activities and disrupted traffic in parts of the city. Protesters blocked the gates of the institution and marched to the Oyo State Government Secretariat at Agodi, chanting songs and holding placards that read messages like “Revert The Name Now,” “We Are Not Consulted,” and “Our Identity, Our Pride.”
Governor Makinde had renamed the school to honour Omololu Olunloyo, the first Ibadan indigene to serve as governor of the old Oyo State, who recently passed away at age 89. However, the students argue that the renaming was done without their input and threatens to erase over 50 years of academic heritage.
Speaking to the press, Students’ Union leader Olamide Oladipupo made it clear that the students are not against honouring the late Olunloyo but believe it should not come at the expense of their institution’s legacy. “This is not a protest; this is a peaceful way to channel our grievances,” he said. “We want the name of our school to remain The Polytechnic, Ibadan. It is a heritage we are proud of, with alumni all over the world.”
Oladipupo further suggested that the government could honour the late governor by naming another structure or monument after him rather than changing the school’s name.
In response to the protest, Oyo State Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal addressed the students, calling for calm and assuring them that their concerns would be presented to Governor Makinde upon his return.
“On behalf of the Governor of Oyo State, I beg and admonish you that your demands will be placed before the governor. When he is back, your grievances will be presented to him,” Lawal promised.
While the students maintained a peaceful atmosphere throughout the protest, their firm stance has reignited public debate over the preservation of institutional identity versus the recognition of historical figures. The final decision now rests with the governor, as students and alumni await a response to their demands.
