Students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, staged a large-scale protest on Tuesday against the recent decision by Governor Seyi Makinde to rename the institution after a former governor, the late Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo.
The demonstration, which began early in the day, resulted in the blockade of the school’s main gates and the busy Sango–Eleyele Road in Ibadan, Oyo State, causing gridlock and leaving many commuters, residents, and travelers stranded. Some staff members were also prevented from accessing the school premises.
The Oyo State Road Transport Management Agency (OYTMA) issued a public advisory, urging motorists to avoid the affected routes. In a statement released by Maj. Adekoya (Rtd.), Executive Chairman of OYTMA, drivers were advised to take alternative routes such as Dugbe, Mokola, and Ajibode, especially those heading to or from Eleyele, Apete, and Ijokodo.
“Motorists are urged to remain calm, obey traffic officers, and follow diversion signs until normal traffic flow resumes,” the agency stated.
The announcement has been met with sharp criticism from students, who argue that the decision was made without consultation and does not reflect the institution’s legacy or the will of the student body.
As of press time, the protest remains peaceful but ongoing.