Students of The Polytechnic Ibadan Protest Renaming of Institution in Honor of Late Governor Olunloyo
Protesters demand reversal, citing loss of institutional legacy and lack of stakeholder consultation
IBADAN, Nigeria | July 1, 2025
Academic activities at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, were disrupted on Tuesday as students took to the streets in protest against the renaming of the institution to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, a decision announced by the Oyo State Government in honor of the late former governor.
The peaceful demonstration saw hundreds of students block the main gates of the campus and several adjoining roads, causing significant traffic disruptions across parts of the Oyo State capital. Commuters experienced delays as students marched toward the Governor’s Office in Agodi, chanting solidarity songs and holding placards with messages such as “Revert The Name Now,” “We Are Not Consulted,” and “Our Identity, Our Pride.”
The Oyo State Government, under Governor Seyi Makinde, announced the renaming of the institution to honor Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, who passed away at the age of 89. Olunloyo, a revered mathematician and statesman, holds the distinction of being the first Ibadan native to govern the old Oyo State.
However, the decision has sparked backlash from the student community, who argue that the change disregards the school’s 50-year heritage and was implemented without adequate stakeholder consultation.
Speaking during the protest, Students’ Union President, Olamide Oladipupo, emphasized the need to preserve the institution’s identity.
“We are not against honoring past leaders, but this should not come at the cost of our legacy,” he said. “The Polytechnic, Ibadan is a name known worldwide. This is a peaceful demonstration to express our concerns and urge the governor to reconsider.”
Oladipupo further stated that the students are open to discussions with the state government and suggested alternative avenues for immortalizing the late governor, such as naming a new building or monument in his honor.
“We are not here to cause chaos or attack the government,” he added. “Our placards carry no insults. We are here to plead—there are other ways to celebrate his memory without erasing ours.”
In response to the protest, Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, addressed the students on behalf of Governor Makinde, who was reportedly unavailable at the time.
“I urge you to remain calm. Your concerns will be relayed to the governor upon his return. I assure you that your voices have been heard,” Lawal said.
As students await an official response from the government, the protest has reignited debate over how public institutions balance legacy, heritage, and political recognition. Stakeholders, including alumni and education advocates, are now calling for inclusive dialogue before making such significant decisions that affect public institutions.
