Students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, have formally appealed to the Oyo State House of Assembly to halt Governor Seyi Makinde’s recent decision to rename the institution after the late former governor, Victor Omololu Olunloyo. The move, announced by Makinde during a tribute event held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, has sparked significant opposition from the student body, alumni, and other stakeholders who view the renaming as a potential threat to the school’s legacy and identity.
In a letter addressed to the state legislature, the Students’ Union Government (SUG), represented by President Oladipupo Olamide and General Secretary Azeez Tolase, expressed deep concern over the governor’s pronouncement. The letter highlighted that The Polytechnic, Ibadan, has built a reputation for academic excellence over its 50-year history, and that changing its name could have lasting negative implications. According to the union, the institution’s current name is not only a symbol of its heritage but also carries significant value in both academic and professional circles across Nigeria and beyond.
The students argued that a name change could disrupt the institution’s identity, complicate certificate verification processes, and alienate alumni who have built their careers around the institution’s longstanding brand. They emphasized the importance of preserving the school’s institutional history, protecting its global reputation, and avoiding backlash from past and current stakeholders. Instead of renaming the entire institution, many have suggested alternative ways to honour the late Olunloyo, such as naming a campus building, lecture theatre, or library after him.
The Youth Arise Movement and various alumni groups have also joined the opposition, urging the House of Assembly to act swiftly and decisively to preserve the institution’s name. The students concluded their letter with a passionate plea for the lawmakers to intervene urgently and ensure that The Polytechnic, Ibadan, retains its name. As the state legislature prepares to deliberate on the matter, public pressure continues to mount on Governor Makinde to reconsider his decision in favour of preserving one of Oyo State’s most historic academic institutions.
