The Oyo State Government has affirmed its decision to rename The Polytechnic, Ibadan, in honour of the late scholar and former governor, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, despite mounting opposition from students.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Wednesday, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, defended the renaming, emphasizing Olunloyo’s historical connection with the institution. “This was the same gentleman who, at 35, became the first rector of this institution in 1970. So, we believe that the protest is misplaced and based on limited awareness of his contributions,” Oyelade stated.
On June 26, Governor Seyi Makinde officially announced that the institution would now bear the name Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan, as a tribute to Olunloyo, who passed away on April 6, 2025. The announcement was made during a state funeral service at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, where the governor also pledged to preserve and digitize the late scholar’s extensive library collection.
However, on Tuesday, July 1, students of the institution staged a protest at the Oyo State Government Secretariat, expressing strong dissatisfaction with the name change. Led by the Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, Olamide Oladipupo, the students carried placards and urged the government to revert to the original name, which they believe holds global significance and historical value.
While Oyelade acknowledged the sentiments of the students, he maintained that the decision is final. “We defer to our students and are always willing to listen. But in this case, we believe this is a worthy decision to honour a worthy son of Oyo State,” he said.
Olunloyo served briefly as governor of Oyo State from October to December 1983 and played a foundational role in the establishment of The Polytechnic, Ibadan.
Despite the resistance, the state government remains steadfast in its resolve, citing the need to preserve and recognize the legacy of Dr. Olunloyo through institutional renaming.
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