Oyo Government Insists on Renaming The Polytechnic Ibadan After Late Governor Olunloyo

Despite growing opposition from students, the Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to renaming The Polytechnic Ibadan in honour of the late former governor, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo.

The Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, made the statement during a live interview on The Morning Brief on Wednesday. His remarks came in response to a protest staged by students of the institution, who expressed dissatisfaction with the state government’s recent decision.

According to Oyelade, the renaming is a justified tribute to a man who made notable contributions to the institution and the state at large.

“This was the same gentleman who, at just 35 years of age in 1970, became the first rector of this institution. So, we believe the protest is misplaced. We stand by our decision because it honours a worthy son of Oyo State,” he said.

While acknowledging the concerns raised by the student body, the commissioner maintained that the government would not reverse its position.

“We respect our students greatly, and as the deputy governor said yesterday, we are always ready to listen and accommodate their views. But in this instance, we will be fair and firm. Our decision remains unchanged,” Oyelade added.

Governor Seyi Makinde had officially announced the renaming of the institution to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan on June 26, 2025, during a state interdenominational funeral service held in honour of the late former governor. The event took place at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan.

Makinde highlighted Dr. Olunloyo’s legacy, noting his pivotal role as the founding principal of the institution and his brief tenure as governor of the state in 1983.

“Yesterday, I mentioned plans to preserve and digitise his library. Today, we are taking another step to immortalise him. As the first principal of The Polytechnic Ibadan, the institution will henceforth be known as Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic,” the governor said.

However, the government’s move has not been well received by the student community. On July 1, 2025, students took to the streets and marched to the Oyo State Government Secretariat in protest. Holding placards and chanting solidarity songs, they urged the governor to reverse the decision and restore the original name of the institution.

Speaking on behalf of the students, the President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), Olamide Oladipupo, expressed disappointment over the decision and appealed to the state government to uphold the institution’s long-standing identity.

“The name ‘The Polytechnic, Ibadan’ is more than just a title; it represents history, legacy, and a reputation that stretches across the globe,” he said.

While the government remains firm in its stance, the students have vowed to continue peaceful protests until their concerns are addressed.