Oyo Government Stands Firm On Renaming Ibadan Polytechnic After Olunloyo

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED

IBADAN, OYO STATE, NIGERIA – The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its decision to rename The Polytechnic, Ibadan, after the late former governor, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, despite growing protests from students.

Speaking on Channels Television’s “The Morning Brief”, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, described the decision as final and irreversible.

According to Oyelade, the renaming of the institution to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan, is a deserving tribute to a man who made notable contributions to the state’s educational and political development.

“Let’s not forget, this was the same gentleman who, at just 35 years old in 1970, became the first rector of this very institution,” he noted.

Oyelade dismissed the protests as “miscarried and misplaced,” emphasizing that the state government firmly stands by the decision.

“We believe this is a worthy recognition for a worthy son of Oyo State,” he said.

While acknowledging the concerns raised by students, the commissioner stressed that the government is committed to honoring Olunloyo’s legacy and has no intention of reversing the decision.

“We respect our students. As the deputy governor said, we’re willing to go the extra mile to accommodate them. But fairness must also come with firmness. In this case, we are standing by our choice,” Oyelade added.

Governor Seyi Makinde had first announced the renaming during Olunloyo’s funeral on June 26, 2025. The former governor passed away on April 6, 2025.

Since the announcement, students have staged demonstrations, arguing that the institution’s original name carries historical significance and international recognition that should be preserved.