Ibadan Polytechnic Students Protest Renaming, Demand Reversal to Preserve Legacy

 On July 1, 2025, thousands of students from The Polytechnic, Ibadan, staged a large-scale protest against Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s decision to rename their institution Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic in honor of the late former governor and first rector, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo. 

The demonstrations, which began on June 27, saw students block major roads, including the Sango-Eleyele axis, disrupting traffic for over six hours and drawing 5,000 participants, including alumni and local residents. Led by Students’ Union Government (SUG) President Oladipupo Olamide, the protesters marched to the Oyo State Secretariat in Agodi, carrying placards with messages like “Save Our Heritage” and “Poly Ibadan Forever,” demanding an immediate reversal of the renaming announced on June 26.

Olamide, addressing the crowd, argued that the institution’s 54-year legacy as a beacon of technical education, producing 200,000 graduates and contributing 15% to Nigeria’s skilled workforce, risks erosion. “The name ‘The Polytechnic, Ibadan’ is a global brand, recognized by employers and academics,” he said, citing its 2024 ranking among Nigeria’s top five polytechnics. 

Alumni, including Dr. Adebukola Ayoola of Kola-Daisi University, echoed this, noting the name’s significance in securing international opportunities for 70% of graduates. Makinde’s decision, intended to honor Olunloyo’s contributions, has sparked debate, with 60% of stakeholders opposing it, per a University of Ibadan survey. The state government, through Special Adviser on Media Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, promised dialogue, allocating N50 million for consultations.