Students Shut Down Polytechnic Ibadan Over Renaming Controversy
Tensions rose on Tuesday as students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan staged a large-scale protest, paralyzing academic and vehicular activities across the campus and surrounding roads. The students voiced strong opposition to the Oyo State Government’s decision to rename the school Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, a move they say was made without their consent.
What Triggered the Protest?
The spark came from a recent announcement by Governor Seyi Makinde, who declared that The Polytechnic, Ibadan would be renamed in honour of Dr Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor of the old Oyo State and the first Ibadan indigene to occupy the office. Dr Olunloyo passed away at the age of 89.
However, students were quick to resist the change, stating it undermines the institution’s legacy. Protesters blocked both school gates and several key roads in the city, bringing traffic to a standstill and halting academic activities for the day.
Students Say: “We Weren’t Asked”
Armed with placards reading:
- “Revert The Name Now”
- “We Are Not Consulted”
- “Our Identity, Our Pride”
The students marched peacefully to the Oyo State Government Secretariat at Agodi, insisting their voices be heard.
President of the Student Union Government, Olamide Oladipupo, expressed the students’ collective frustration.
“We’re not against honouring past leaders—but not like this,” Oladipupo said.
“This name is our heritage. The Polytechnic, Ibadan, carries over 50 years of academic excellence. You don’t just erase that.”
He stressed the protest is not an act of rebellion but a call for dialogue.
“We’re peaceful. No violence, no insults. The governor can still honour the late Dr Olunloyo—name a building or a new institution after him. But don’t take our name away.”
Government’s Response
Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal addressed the students, urging calm. While he refrained from making promises, he assured students their concerns would reach the governor.
“The governor is currently out of town,” Lawal said. “Once he returns, we’ll present your demands for consideration.”
What’s Next?
At the moment, students are standing firm while remaining peaceful. They await Governor Makinde’s return, hoping for a reversal of the name change or at least a public dialogue.
“Keep the name. Keep the identity.”
That’s the message echoing across Ibadan as this developing story unfolds.
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