Students Protest Renaming of The Polytechnic, Ibadan
Students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan protested the school’s renaming to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic. This article breaks down why they protested, what they said, and how the government responded.
On Tuesday, students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan brought academic activities to a halt over the renaming of their school. They took to the streets to reject the new name, Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, announced by the Oyo State government.
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What Triggered the Protest?
Governor Seyi Makinde had renamed the institution in honour of the late Dr Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of the old Oyo State and the first Ibadan native to hold that office. He passed away at 89.
The move did not sit well with students. By midday, both gates of the school were blocked, and some major roads around the city were clogged. Commuters got stuck in the traffic while the campus stood still.
Students Say: “We Weren’t Asked”
Students carried placards with bold messages like:
- “Revert The Name Now”
- “We Are Not Consulted”
- “Our Identity, Our Pride”
They marched to the Governor’s Office at Agodi Secretariat, saying they were never involved in the decision and won’t watch their school’s identity get erased.
Olamide Oladipupo, who leads the Students’ Union, addressed reporters during the march. His words were clear.
“We’re not against honouring past leaders, but not like this,” he said.
“This isn’t just a name. It’s our heritage. Over 50 years of history and alumni across the world. You can’t just throw that away.”
He added that the protest wasn’t about fighting the governor.
“No insult, no violence. We just want him to hear us out. Let him name a new structure after the late governor. There’s land. But leave our school’s name alone.”
Government’s Response
The Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, came out to speak with the students. He didn’t give a direct answer but asked them to remain calm.
“The governor is not in town now. Once he’s back, we’ll present your demands to him,” Lawal said.
What’s Next?
For now, students want dialogue. They’re holding their ground but keeping things peaceful. What happens next depends on how the governor responds when he returns.
Until then, the message is simple: Keep the name. Keep the identity.