Ibadan Poly Students’ Union Rejects Renaming of Institution, Demands Reversal from Governor Makinde

The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, has strongly condemned the recent decision by Governor Seyi Makinde to rename the institution in honour of the late former governor and academic, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo.

In an official press release dated June 26 and addressed to the Governor of Oyo State, the union expressed “utmost disapproval and disappointment” over what it described as a move that undermines the heritage, history, and identity of the 52-year-old institution.

Governor Makinde had on Thursday announced during a commendation service at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, that The Polytechnic, Ibadan, would henceforth be known as Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan. The renaming, he stated, is a tribute to the late statesman’s pivotal contributions to education, particularly as the pioneer rector of the institution before becoming governor.

But in a fiery response, the student body said the renaming is “unjustifiable” and warned that it would “erase the identity and legacy” of an institution long regarded as a beacon of academic excellence in Nigeria.

“The name ‘The Polytechnic, Ibadan’ is synonymous with quality education and has earned respect and recognition nationwide,” the statement signed by the Union President, Oladipupo Olamide, read. “Renaming the institution would cause irreparable harm to its reputation and alumni pride.”

The Union’s Public Relations Officer, Akinade Ridwan Buniyamin, further emphasised that the union is open to dialogue but firmly demands an immediate reversal of the renaming.

“We are not opposing honouring past leaders. But such honour must not come at the cost of stripping an institution of its identity. The Polytechnic, Ibadan, must remain as The Polytechnic, Ibadan,” the union declared in a repeated chorus within the statement.

The letter, also signed by the General Secretary, Azeez Tolase, was addressed directly to the state government and concluded with a call for urgent reconsideration.

The development has sparked conversations among students, alumni, and education stakeholders in the state. While some see the renaming as a rightful honour for a respected elder statesman, others believe the government should have considered alternative ways to memorialise Olunloyo without altering the identity of the school.

As of press time, the Oyo State Government has not responded to the union’s objections.