Students and alumni of The Polytechnic, Ibadan have rejected the renaming of the institution after the departed Governor Omololu Olunloyo, by Governor Seyi Makinde.
The students, in a statement on Friday in Ibadan, by the Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, Oladipupo Olamide, expressed disappointment over the move.
According to the statement, “We strongly believe that this decision is unjustifiable and disregards the rich heritage and history of our beloved school”.
The statement noted that The Polytechnic, Ibadan, has, for over five decades, stood as a symbol of academic excellence, with a reputation for quality education and national recognition.
It said, “Renaming it would strip away its identity and legacy. It could damage its reputation and disconnect alumni from their roots”.
Olamide urged the governor to reconsider his decision and allow the school to retain its original name, which reflects its history, values, and mission.
He also called for dialogue, suggesting that better alternatives could be explored in honouring the late governor without changing the school’s name.
Also, Yomi Akande, an alumnus and leader of the Non-Academic Staff Union at the school, voiced similar concerns.
“As an alumnus of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, the name of the institution holds significant recognition worldwide.
“While the name of the late former Governor Olunloyo is honourable, what many people oppose is the change of the institution’s name. This change will not bring any new development to the school.”
