Makinde Faces Backlash as Stakeholders Clash Over Proposed Renaming of The Polytechnic Ibadan

A wave of reactions has trailed Governor Seyi Makinde’s announcement to rename The Polytechnic Ibadan in honour of the late Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, the first Ibadan-born governor of the former Oyo State. Olunloyo, who held office between October and December 1983, was also the pioneer Principal of the prestigious institution and an accomplished mathematician before his passing on April 6, 2025.

In tribute, Governor Makinde disclosed plans to rebrand the institution as Victor Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan, praising Olunloyo’s impactful life and outstanding achievements. However, his intention has triggered passionate and divergent reactions from students, alumni, prominent citizens, and various other stakeholders.

Students, Alumni, and Stakeholders Object to Polytechnic Ibadan’s Renaming

Many students and past graduates of the institution have strongly resisted Governor Makinde’s plan, urging him to reverse the proposed name change. According to reports gathered by LMSINT MEDIA, protesters gathered on Tuesday, blocking the gates of the institution and the bustling Sango-Eleyele Road, causing heavy traffic and leaving numerous commuters and residents stranded. Even members of staff were unable to enter the campus due to the blockade.

The Students’ Union Government (SUG), led by President Olamide Oladipupo, condemned the renaming as “unjustifiable and degrading,” emphasizing the institution’s 50-year legacy of academic distinction. Oladipupo argued that the Polytechnic Ibadan’s name embodies quality education and nationwide respect, and any alteration would severely damage its brand and alumni pride. He further urged Governor Makinde to preserve the school’s identity and seek alternative ways to honour the late Olunloyo.

“For over five decades, The Polytechnic Ibadan has been a shining light of academic achievement, producing graduates who have made far-reaching contributions to society. Renaming the school would wipe away its heritage, inflicting long-term damage on its reputation and community.”

The SUG pledged to engage in dialogue and demanded the government immediately reverse the decision, encouraging other stakeholders to support their cause.

CDWR: Symbolism Without Development is Empty

The Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR) also weighed in, describing the renaming initiative as a hollow symbolic act unless paired with actual reforms to address the institution’s core challenges. Oyo State CDWR coordinator Abiodun Bamigboye noted that the Polytechnic faces deep-seated problems including underfunding, infrastructure decay, inadequate staff welfare, and outdated learning resources.

Bamigboye highlighted that the state administration must prioritize true development by funding renovations, modernizing equipment, improving staff remuneration, reducing school fees, and encouraging scholarships. He also stressed the need for democratic governance and accountability, criticizing the outsourcing of the Polytechnic’s financial management to Platinum, an external consultancy firm.

The CDWR further raised alarm over anti-labour practices, especially the continued casualization of 80% of the workforce, as well as the suppression of union activities within the institution.

Bamigboye concluded:

“Renaming the Polytechnic without resolving these fundamental issues amounts to an empty ritual. We demand the Makinde-led administration focus on a holistic, transparent, and transformative development program rather than cosmetic changes.”

Ex-CCII President-General Urges Makinde to Reverse Decision

Chief Adeyemi Soladoye, a former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and an alumnus of the institution, also joined the opposition against the proposed name change. Soladoye warned Makinde against being influenced by “political jobbers” and reminded him of the transient nature of political power.

In a heartfelt appeal, Soladoye acknowledged Makinde’s remarkable infrastructural achievements, including the completion of the Olubadan Palace and the upgrade of the local airport to international status, but cautioned that The Polytechnic Ibadan was not established to serve only Ibadan but the entire Western Region.

He argued that the institution has earned continental prestige, producing champions like football legend Chief Segun Odegbami, and should not be downgraded to celebrate a single individual, however distinguished. Soladoye pointed to precedents like the naming of halls of residence at the University of Lagos and the University of Ibadan to honour founding principals, suggesting a similar, less disruptive route to honour Olunloyo.

Soladoye also cited past examples where leaders heeded public sentiment to reverse similar unpopular renaming moves, including former President Goodluck Jonathan’s reversal on renaming the University of Lagos after MKO Abiola.

He passionately concluded:

“As a populist governor, let the people win on the Polytechnic Ibadan issue. It will cost nothing from you and will help heal the grievances your administration is already facing over land and heritage matters.”

Soladoye further questioned the timing and cost implications of changing official records amid a period of widespread economic hardship, urging the governor to prioritize the needs of the people.