July 01, (THEWILL) — The students of the Ibadan Polytechnic have staged a protest against the recent decision by Governor Seyi Makinde to rename the institution after the late former governor, Omololu Olunloyo.
The protest comes just days after Governor Makinde had, at Dr Olunloyo’s funeral service on Thursday, June 26, at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, announced that the polytechnic would be renamed in honour of the late statesman.
Displaying placards bearing messages such as “Respect Our Legacy”, “Ibadan Poly Is Not for Sale”, and “Reverse the Name Change Now”, the students stormed the Secretariat in Agodi, condemning the decision of Governor Makinde.
Olamide Oladipupo, president of the Student Union Government (SUG), who led the protest, called on the governor to reconsider the move and preserve the historical identity and global recognition of The Polytechnic Ibadan.
“We’re not against honouring Dr Omololu Olunloyo. But the legacy and name of The Polytechnic Ibadan must be protected. It holds pride of place not just in Nigeria, but among our alumni worldwide”, Oladipupo said.
The students argued that while the late Dr Olunloyo’s contributions to Oyo State were commendable, the polytechnic’s name carries decades of academic and cultural significance that should not be altered without broad consultation.
The protest was peaceful, although the students vowed to continue voicing their displeasure until the government reversed its decision.
Governor Makinde has yet to issue a formal response to the students’ demands as at the time of this report.
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