The protest, which began early Tuesday, saw hundreds of students blocking major roads around the Sango-Eleyele axis, chanting slogans and wielding placards that read:
By Onocheta Mathew
Ibadan, Nigeria – Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Massive protests have broken out this morning in Ibadan as students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan take to the streets to fiercely oppose the renaming of their institution to ‘Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan’, a move approved by Governor Seyi Makinde.
The protest, which began early Tuesday, saw hundreds of students blocking major roads around the Sango-Eleyele axis, chanting slogans and wielding placards that read:
- “No to Political Name Change!”
- “We are Ibadan Poly, Not Omololu Polytechnic!”
- “Respect Our Identity and History!”
The spontaneous demonstration has caused gridlock in several parts of the city as students marched from the school gate into surrounding neighborhoods, demanding that the state government immediately reverse the decision.
Students Reject ‘Forced Identity Change’
Student leaders condemned the name change as insensitive and politically driven, accusing the Makinde administration of making the decision without proper consultation with students, staff, or alumni.
“We are proud students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan. This name has built a legacy for over five decades. We will not allow any government to erase that,” said Adeola Yusuf, a protest coordinator.
“Renaming our school after a politician without our consent is disrespectful. We reject it entirely,” he added.
Alumni and Staff Show Solidarity
Members of the alumni association and academic staff have also raised concerns, noting that a sudden name change could lead to confusion regarding certificates, academic records, and the school’s global reputation.
“We respect the contributions of Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, but this is not the way to honour anyone. You don’t destroy one legacy to build another,” said Mrs. Folake Adebayo, a prominent alumna.
State Government Defends Decision
The Oyo State Government has stood by its decision, stating that the renaming is a tribute to Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, a former governor and intellectual who played a significant role in the state’s development.
“Naming institutions after distinguished individuals is common practice. This is a mark of honour and respect,” the Commissioner for Education said in a brief statement.
Calls for Calm as Tension Builds
Civil society groups and community elders have urged both the students and the government to remain calm and engage in dialogue, warning that the protest could escalate if left unresolved.
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