Students reject renaming of Ibadan Poly, appeal to Oyo Assembly

The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of The Polytechnic, Ibadan has formally appealed to the Oyo State House of Assembly to reconsider Governor Seyi Makinde’s recent pronouncement to rename the institution.

The move, which has sparked concern among students, alumni, and stakeholders, is seen as a threat to the institution’s long-standing heritage and reputation.

In a letter addressed to the House of Assembly and signed by the SUG President, Comrade Oladipupo Olamide D, the student body described the decision as potentially harmful to the identity and legacy of the school, which has stood as a beacon of academic excellence for over five decades.

“The Polytechnic, Ibadan has a rich legacy spanning over 50 years, and its name is synonymous with excellence in education,” the letter reads. “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 students listed several reasons for their resistance to the proposed change, including the preservation of history and legacy, protection of institutional identity, and the potential negative impact on alumni and stakeholders. They also expressed concern over the implications the renaming might have on the school’s academic reputation and public image.

The letter noted the urgency of the situation in light of an upcoming sitting of the House of Assembly and urged lawmakers to act swiftly. “We have expedited this appeal to bring the matter to your attention promptly, seeking your prompt reconsideration and intervention,” the students wrote.

The Polytechnic, Ibadan, established in 1970, is one of Nigeria’s foremost tertiary institutions and holds a special place in the educational landscape of the country.

The student body concluded their appeal with a passionate plea: “We appeal that our institution’s name should be retained as The Polytechnic, Ibadan!”