“This Government Is Open to Engagement,” Makinde Tells Poly Ibadan Over Renaming Controversy

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has assured alumni and students of The Polytechnic Ibadan—recently renamed Victor Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic—that his administration remains open to dialogue over the contentious name change, urging stakeholders to present superior arguments rather than rely on sentiments.

Speaking on Friday during the inauguration of new governing councils for five state-owned tertiary institutions, including The Polytechnic Ibadan, the governor reaffirmed his government’s commitment to quality education and institutional excellence.

“If you have a superior argument—not sentiment—we will listen. We’re ready to engage,” Makinde stated, referencing the pushback from alumni and student bodies opposed to the renaming of the 52-year-old institution after the former governor and first rector, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo.

The newly inaugurated governing council of The Polytechnic Ibadan is chaired by Prof. Lanre Nassar, with other members including:

• Prince Adeleke Akinboye Ajala

• Prof. Odunola Olaitan Olutayo

• Prof. (Engr.) Mudasiru Lateef Owolabi

• Mr. Abduljelili Sunmonu

• Engr. Tajudeen Bello Olori

• Mr. Ogungbe Oludele Tunji

• Mrs. Eniola Lucy Bola

Makinde used the occasion to underscore the value of reasoned debate in policy decisions, citing how his administration previously considered renaming LAUTECH but retained the name after alumni presented strong counterarguments.

“What we should be concerned about is not just the name, but the quality of graduates. If tomorrow we upgrade The Polytechnic to a university, should it still be called The Polytechnic, Ibadan?”

Governor Makinde acknowledged the financial pressures facing The Polytechnic Ibadan and other state-owned institutions, especially regarding subventions and staff salaries. He revealed that his administration began full 100% subvention payments from day one in office, despite it not being implemented by the previous government.

He noted the state’s evolving economic realities, including increases in the minimum wage—from ₦18,000 to ₦80,000—and affirmed readiness to work with the new councils to ensure sustainability.

“We know institutions are struggling. We don’t want governing councils to see this as hardship postings. In the coming weeks, we will sit down with you to find workable solutions.”

Call for Orderly Engagements

Addressing recent student protests over the name change, Makinde urged calm and constructive dialogue:

“Freedom to protest is not absolute. When you disrupt others’ lives, you cross a line. We are a listening government. Come with logic, and we’ll respond with action—even apologies, if necessary.”

Tertiary Sector Reforms and Broader Appointments

The event also saw the governor inaugurate councils for:

• Michael Koleoso Polytechnic, Saki (formerly Oke Ogun Polytechnic)

• Oyo State College of Agriculture, Igboora

• Oyo State College of Education, Lanlate

• Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology, Eleyele

Makinde signed the legal instrument formally renaming the Oke Ogun Polytechnic after Michael Koleoso, a respected elder statesman and former minister.

He also praised the governing council of LAUTECH, led by Prof. Ayodeji Omole, for helping transform the state from owning “one and a half” universities in 2019 to three thriving institutions today.

Dignitaries Present

Prominent attendees included:

• Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal

• Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin

• Former Deputy Governors Taofeek Arapaja, Hamid Gbadamosi, and Hazeem Gbolarumi

• Senator Monsurat Sunmonu

• Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo

• Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, and other senior government officials