I’m Open to Dialogue” Over Ibadan Poly Protesters on Name Change, Says Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed readiness to engage in dialogue with stakeholders protesting the renaming of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, assuring that the decision could be reviewed if superior arguments are presented. Speaking during the inauguration of newly constituted governing councils of five state-owned tertiary institutions in Ibadan on Thursday, Governor Makinde acknowledged the concerns raised by students and alumni of the institution. He said his administration welcomes constructive criticism and remains open to reconsidering its stance when valid points are made. “I saw a full-page advert by the alumni of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, expressing their objection. I read it, and I said to myself, ‘Maybe I’m wrong.’ This government is not rigid. We welcome superior arguments and constructive dialogue. If anyone has a better idea, we are ready to engage,” Makinde said. The renaming of the institution has sparked widespread protests and resistance. On July 1 and 2, students staged peaceful demonstrations, locked school gates, and marched to the state secretariat, demanding a reversal of the name change. Carrying placards bearing inscriptions such as “Revert the Name Now” and “Our Legacy Must Be Preserved,” the students expressed dissatisfaction with what they described as a lack of consultation. The Students' Union President, Olamide Oladipupo, emphasized the importance of preserving the institution's heritage and called for proper engagement with students and alumni before any such decision is finalized. “This institution has a global identity. Renaming it without proper consultation disrespects our history. We want dialogue, not confrontation,” he stated. The alumni association also expressed strong disapproval of the renaming, warning that the new name could create confusion for graduates during certificate verification and damage the institution’s global recognition. In a newspaper advert, the group appealed to the governor to reconsider the move and preserve the school’s historical identity. Governor Makinde, while responding to the protests, maintained that every citizen has the right to express their views but stressed that such expressions must not threaten public order or disrupt institutional operations. He urged the aggrieved groups to make use of formal and peaceful avenues to express their concerns. “Democracy is built on open dialogue and respect for differing opinions,” he said. “We want people to feel heard, not ignored. But that must happen through the right platforms.” The governor added that the decision to rename the institution was not politically driven, but intended to honour a prominent figure who contributed significantly to the state. However, he reiterated that policies must be based on logic and the public good, and that his administration is willing to listen to stakeholders. The state government is expected to initiate further discussions with representatives of the students, alumni, and academic community in the coming days as consultations continue over the future of the institution's name.