Students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, have staged a massive protest against the recent decision by Governor Seyi Makinde to rename the institution as Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan. The renaming was announced during the funeral service of the late former governor and pioneer principal of the polytechnic, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo.
The protesting students blocked the entrance gates of the institution and major roads including Sango-Eleyele Road, causing significant traffic disruption and leaving hundreds of commuters and staff stranded. They also marched to the Oyo State Government Secretariat to express their displeasure.
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) issued a letter appealing to the state House of Assembly to reconsider the renaming, arguing that the polytechnic’s original name carries over five decades of academic legacy and is synonymous with excellence. They warned that changing the name would erase the institution’s identity, affect its reputation, and alienate alumni and the community.
While some members of the public have welcomed the renaming as a fitting tribute to Olunloyo’s contributions, the students and some alumni remain opposed, demanding the reversal of the decision to preserve the school’s heritage. As of now, the Oyo State Government has not officially responded to the protests or the union’s demands.
