The Polytechnic Ibadan Students Protest Renaming Of Institution In Honour Of Late Governor Olunloyo

Hundreds of students from The Polytechnic, Ibadan, took to the streets on Tuesday in a protest against the renaming of their institution to “Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic.” The demonstration, which began on campus and extended to the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, disrupted academic activities and left many road users stranded.

The students, chanting solidarity songs and waving placards, expressed their displeasure over what they described as a unilateral decision by Governor Seyi Makinde. They demanded that the institution’s original name be restored immediately.

According to them, the name “The Polytechnic, Ibadan” carries decades of legacy, recognition, and pride. The Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, Olamide Oladipupo, emphasised during the protest that the school’s identity has become deeply rooted and appealed for the need to change it back.

Makinde had officially renamed the school on June 26, 2025, during the funeral of the late Chief Omololu Olunloyo, the first Ibadan-born governor of old Oyo State. Olunloyo, who passed away on April 6 at age 89, was also the pioneer principal of the institution. The renaming was presented as a tribute to his legacy in education and public service.

However, the students argue that despite Olunloyo’s contributions, the school’s name should not be altered in a way that erases decades of established heritage.

The Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security, Sunday Odukoya, addressed the students at the secretariat and urged them to remain peaceful while assuring that their concerns would be communicated to the appropriate authorities.

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