Students Shut Down Polytechnic Ibadan Over Renaming to Honor Late Olunloyo

Students of The Polytechnic Ibadan halted all academic and administrative activities on Tuesday morning in protest against the renaming of the institution after former Governor Victor Omololu Olunloyo.

Academic and administrative activities were brought to a standstill Tuesday morning at The Polytechnic Ibadan, as students launched a protest against the renaming of the institution after former Governor Victor Omololu Olunloyo.

Governor Seyi Makinde had announced the change during an interdenominational service held in memory of the late Olunloyo, citing his contributions to the educational sector. Olunloyo was notably the first Rector of the Polytechnic and a former Commissioner in the old Western Region.

The announcement sparked mixed reactions. While some praised the gesture, many students and alumni expressed strong opposition.

In protest, students locked down both the North and South gates of the campus, paralyzing academic operations. They also blocked major roads, including Sango Junction, disrupting traffic and forcing commuters to walk long distances.

Protesters insisted the demonstrations would continue until the governor rescinds the decision.

By midday, the students had marched to the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan. Chanting solidarity songs and holding placards, they forced security personnel to shut the Secretariat’s gates. As of the time of this report, the students remained at the scene in continued protest.

READ ALSO: Ex-School Dropout Who is now Successful Businessman Teams Up With Son to Launch Financial Literacy Academy

SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, THE NATION