Panic as students protest renaming of Poly Ibadan after former Gov

Tensions flared in Ibadan on Tuesday as students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, staged a massive protest against the recent decision by Governor Seyi Makinde to rename the institution after the late former governor, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo.

The demonstration brought parts of the Oyo State capital to a standstill, particularly along the busy Sango-Eleyele Road, where hundreds of students marched, chanting solidarity songs and holding placards. Commuters and businesses in the area were caught in the disruption, with many expressing frustration over the traffic gridlock that lasted for hours.

The students, visibly aggrieved, described the renaming of the school as abrupt and ill-considered. They argued that the government failed to properly consult with stakeholders—including students, alumni, and staff—before making such a significant change.

“We’re not saying Dr. Olunloyo is not deserving of honour,” one protester said. “But this decision was made without our input. We were not informed, and we do not accept it.”

Governor Seyi Makinde had announced just days earlier that the institution would now be known as Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan, in tribute to the late former governor, who served briefly during Nigeria’s Second Republic. The decision was framed as a gesture to immortalize a respected figure in the state’s history.

Olunloyo was the first Ibadan person to serve as the Governor of old Oyo State.

He served between October and December 1983.

The students in the early hours of Tuesday blocked the entrance gates of the institution.

They also blocked the ever busy Sango -Eleyele Road.

This made many commuters, residents and travellers plying the road to be stranded.

Some staff are also stranded as the majority of them were unable to gain access to the institution.

The Oyo State Road Transport Management Agency (OYTMA) in a statement by the Executive Chairman, Maj. Adekoya Rtd. enjoined commuters to use alternative routes for their movements pending temporary blockage of the roads.

He wrote: “The general public are hereby informed of an ongoing student protest at The Polytechnic Ibadan, main Gate, the road in front of the school gate has been temporarily blocked.

“Motorists heading towards Eleyele, Apete, Ijokodo, and nearby areas axis from Sango and vice visa are advised to take alternative routes through Dugbe, Mokola or Ajibode to avoid delays and unnecessary confrontation.

“We appeal to all road users to remain calm, cooperate with traffic officers, and follow all traffic diversion signs.

“Thank you for your understanding.“