Students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan have asked the Oyo State House of Assembly to halt the proposed renaming of their institution.
They believe the move, backed by Governor Seyi Makinde, will erase over 50 years of legacy and excellence.
In a formal letter addressed to the House, the Students’ Union Government (SUG) called for urgent intervention.
“The Polytechnic, Ibadan has a rich legacy spanning over 50 years, and its name is synonymous with excellence in education,” they wrote.
They argued that changing the name would do more harm than good to the institution’s identity and image.
SUG Cites History, Reputation, and Stakeholder Concerns
Signed by SUG President Comrade Oladipupo Olamide D., the letter listed several reasons why the proposal should be shelved.
Students fear the renaming could damage the school’s national reputation and confuse employers, prospective students, and alumni.
“Renaming it would erase its identity and legacy, affecting not only the current students and staff but also the alumni and the entire community,” the SUG insisted.
The students submitted the letter ahead of the next sitting of the Oyo State House of Assembly.
They believe time is of the essence and asked lawmakers to act fast.
“We have expedited this appeal to bring the matter to your attention promptly, seeking your prompt reconsideration and intervention,” the letter read.
Alumni and Community Also Stand to Lose
The protest isn’t just about students. Alumni and other stakeholders have also raised their voices against the change.
They worry the move could affect the school’s ranking, reputation, and even funding prospects.
Many alumni credit their careers to the credibility of the institution’s name.
Students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, have stage a protest to the Governor’s Office in Agodi, Ibadan opposing Governor Seyi Makinde’s proposal to rename the institution as Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, insisting that the original name be retained. pic.twitter.com/ux96DDVLwN
— Galaxy Television (@galaxytv) July 1, 2025
Founded in 1970, The Polytechnic, Ibadan has trained thousands of professionals in engineering, science, business, and the arts.
It remains one of Nigeria’s most respected tertiary institutions, particularly for technical education.
Its graduates are found across industries and are known for their practical skills and resilience.
The SUG concluded the letter with an emotional request that echoed through campus and beyond.
“We appeal that our institution’s name should be retained as The Polytechnic, Ibadan!”
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