Mass Protest Erupts in Ibadan as Students Reject Renaming of The Polytechnic to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic
Tension gripped parts of Ibadan on Tuesday as students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, took to the streets in protest against the recent renaming of their institution by the Oyo State Government.
The demonstration caused widespread disruption, particularly along the busy Sango–Eleyele Road, leaving numerous commuters and residents stranded for several hours.
The protest began early in the morning when students blocked all entrance gates to the institution, as well as the main Sango–Eleyele thoroughfare. The road, which serves as a key route for thousands of travellers, was brought to a standstill.
Witnesses reported that hundreds of commuters were left helpless at bus stops, waiting for commercial vehicles and motorcycles that could no longer operate freely due to the blockage.
The impact of the protest extended beyond commuters. Staff members of the Polytechnic were also caught in the chaos, with many unable to access their offices and classrooms. The protest paralyzed both academic and economic activities around the area.
At the heart of the unrest is the recent decision by Governor Seyi Makinde to rename The Polytechnic, Ibadan to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan, in honour of the late Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, a respected scholar and former governor of old Oyo State. Dr. Olunloyo served briefly between October and December 1983 and is remembered for his contributions to public service and academia.
While the renaming was intended to immortalize the legacy of the former governor, it has sparked outrage among students who see the decision as a threat to the institution’s long-standing heritage.
IREPORT247NEWS reports that the Students’ Union Government (SUG) has taken a strong stance against the move, issuing a public statement condemning it.
In a formal declaration titled “Objection to the Renaming of The Polytechnic Ibadan,” the SUG expressed its deep dissatisfaction and called for an immediate reversal of the directive. The statement reads in part:
“We, the Students’ Union Government of The Polytechnic Ibadan, express our utmost disapproval and disappointment at the recent decision to rename our institution. We firmly believe that this move is unjustifiable and fails to acknowledge the rich history and achievements of our great school.”
The union emphasized that for over 50 years, The Polytechnic Ibadan has stood as a beacon of academic excellence, producing thousands of graduates who have made significant contributions to national development. According to them, the name of the institution is not just a label but a symbol of tradition, academic pride, and quality education.
“Renaming the institution risks erasing its identity and diminishing the hard-earned reputation built over the decades,” the SUG added.
In a direct appeal to the state governor, the union requested a reversal of the decision and proposed a dialogue with the government to explore alternative ways of honouring Dr. Olunloyo without altering the school’s name.
“We request an immediate reversal of this decision and look forward to your prompt response. Let it be known: THE POLYTECHNIC IBADAN MUST REMAIN AS THE POLYTECHNIC IBADAN!”
As the protest continued, security personnel were deployed to the area to monitor the situation and prevent further escalation. The state government is yet to officially respond to the students’ demands.