Ibadan Polytechnic Students Protest Renaming To Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic.
Students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, in Oyo State, have taken to the streets to protest the decision by Governor Seyi Makinde to rename their institution Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic. The demonstration, which began in the early hours of Tuesday, 1 July 2025, saw hundreds of students block the main gates of the institution and the busy Sango-Eleyele Road, causing significant disruption to commuters and staff in the state capital.
The decision to rename the polytechnic was announced by Governor Makinde on 26 June 2025 during an interdenominational commendation service for the late Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of old Oyo State and the institution’s first rector. Makinde described the renaming as a tribute to Olunloyo’s contributions to the state and the polytechnic’s early development. However, the move has sparked widespread opposition from students, alumni, and stakeholders who view it as a threat to the institution’s 50-year legacy and global brand identity.
The Students’ Union Government (SUG), led by President Oladipupo Olamide, issued a statement condemning the decision as “unjustifiable and degrading.” The SUG argued that the name “The Polytechnic, Ibadan” is synonymous with academic excellence and holds significant recognition worldwide. “This decision disregards the rich heritage and history of our beloved school,” Olamide stated, urging the governor to reverse the decision. The union suggested alternative ways to honour Olunloyo, such as naming a building or research centre after him.
Alumni have also voiced strong opposition. Dr. Wole Olarinde, President of the Class 1997 Alumni of the Association of Students Communicators, described the renaming as an “attempted murder” of the institution’s legacy. “The Polytechnic, Ibadan, is a global brand. Changing its name overnight is unacceptable,” he said. Yomi Akande, a leader in the Non-Academic Staff Union, echoed this sentiment, noting that while Olunloyo’s contributions are commendable, the institution’s name carries prestige that should be preserved.
The protest caused significant disruption, with commuters stranded and staff unable to access the campus. Social media posts captured the scale of the demonstration, with students chanting and displaying placards demanding the retention of the original name. Some stakeholders have appealed to the Oyo State House of Assembly to intervene, urging lawmakers to reject any bill formalising the name change.
Despite the backlash, some, including Peoples Democratic Party chieftain Alhaji Moshood Olaleke, have praised Makinde’s gesture, describing Olunloyo’s brief tenure as governor in 1983 as remarkable. However, the consensus among the polytechnic’s community is that the renaming lacks consultation and risks eroding the institution’s identity.
As the protests continue, students and alumni remain hopeful that Governor Makinde, known for his responsiveness, will reconsider the decision. The controversy underscores the deep pride and emotional connection the polytechnic’s community holds for its name and heritage.
