Ibadan Polytechnic students urge Oyo Assembly to stop renaming of school

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, has appealed to the Oyo State House of Assembly to reject Governor Seyi Makinde’s decision to rename the institution after the late former governor, Omololu Olunloyo.

Governor Makinde had announced the renaming during an interdenominational commendation service held for Olunloyo at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, last week.

The decision has since sparked widespread criticism among students, alumni, and stakeholders of the institution, who argue that the name change undermines the school’s history and identity.

In a letter addressed to the House of Assembly on Monday, signed by SUG President Oladipupo Olamide and General Secretary Azeez Tolase, the union argued that The Polytechnic, Ibadan, has built a legacy of academic excellence for over 50 years that should not be erased.

“The Polytechnic, Ibadan has a rich legacy spanning over five decades, and its name is synonymous with excellence in education,” the letter stated. “Renaming it would erase its identity and legacy, affecting not only current students and staff but also alumni and the entire community.”

The union stressed that the preservation of the institution’s history and reputation is crucial, warning that a change in name could disrupt its academic brand and the global recognition it has built over the years.

They urged lawmakers to intervene swiftly, adding, “We appeal to the honourable members to retain the institution’s name as The Polytechnic, Ibadan, in the interest of history, identity, and the academic future of its students.”

The Assembly is yet to issue an official response regarding the appeal at the time of this report.