In a nation where strongman politics often overshadows constitutional adherence, leaders who follow due process are often painted as weak or ineffective. Yet, history tends to vindicate those who choose the path of law and order. One such figure is former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, whose recent portrayal in the book “OPL 245: The Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Oil Block” by Mohammed Bello Adoke, Nigeria’s former Attorney General, has rekindled a national debate on leadership, legality, and legacy.
Recent, I watched ‘The Morning Show’ programme on Arise News, where Dr. Reuben Abati reflected on Adoke’s account of Jonathan’s leadership style in his just published book. According to Adoke, Jonathan was a “respecter of law”. He is the type of leader who, in meetings, would often ask, “What does the law say?” before making critical decisions, followed by a directive to “call me the Attorney General,” Abati added.
Unfortunately, in a society grappling with lawlessness, such lawful precepts are sometimes misunderstood as weakness. Therefore, as Nigeria continues its search for leaders with moral clarity, such characteristics are precisely what we need.
The UNILAG Renaming Saga
On May 29, 2012, during his Democracy Day broadcast, President Jonathan announced the renaming of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) to Moshood Abiola University, Lagos, in honour of Chief MKO Abiola; the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election. MKO remains a widely respected figure, often described as a martyr of Nigeria’s democracy. The intention was clear: to immortalize a national hero.
The announcement sparked immediate outrage. UNILAG students poured into the streets of Yaba, and Lagos Mainland, protesting what they described as an arbitrary decision. The university’s alumni association, faculty members, and various civil society groups condemned the move as undemocratic, unilateral, and lacking due consultation.
However, less than a month later, in June 2012, the UNILAG Alumni Association and student representatives filed a lawsuit challenging the renaming. A Federal High Court in Lagos issued an interim injunction, halting the federal government’s attempt to implement the new name.
In my own opinion, the uproar wasn’t about disrespecting MKO’s legacy; it was about process, autonomy, institutional identity and the pride of affiliation. For many stakeholders, the university’s name symbolized decades of academic excellence and brand equity and esteem.
Rather than push forward with executive muscle, President Jonathan respected the court’s decision and allowed the matter to rest. In a later media chat, he clarified that the move did not violate the constitution but chose not to escalate the matter, thereby preserving institutional integrity and public peace.
To date, the University of Lagos remains UNILAG, not Moshood Abiola University; a proof of public accountability.
Fast Forward to 2025: The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and Governor Makinde
In a surprising announcement on 26 June 2025, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State revealed that The Polytechnic, Ibadan, would be renamed Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, in honour of Late Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, the institution’s first rector and a former governor of the state. The late Olunloyo tenure as the rector was brief. It was said to have served for less than 10 months before resigning to pursue his political ambitions.
Here’s where the irony deepens.
Governor Seyi Makinde is a proud alumnus of the University of Lagos Faculty of Engineering, and by extension, a member of the UNILAG Alumni Association. The same alumni body that, in 2012, was at the forefront of resisting the renaming of their alma mater. They went to court, won an injunction, and played a key role in defending the university’s name.
So how does an alumnus of an institution that once fought and won a battle over forced renaming turn around to unilaterally rename another institution without broad-based consultation?
In a recent press conference, Governor Makinde attempted to calm the waters by calling for some sort dialogue, asking people to present reasons for opposing the move. But one wonders: dialogue after the announcement? Shouldn’t consultation come before such a monumental decision?
This is not just about names; it’s about legacy, identity, and stakeholder engagement. A university or polytechnic is not merely a building or logo; it is an institution tied to the lives, careers, and reputations of thousands of alumni, staff, and students. The renaming of public institutions should follow legislative protocols, public hearings, and alumni consultations. Anything less is political overreach.
President Jonathan may not be universally celebrated, but in matters like the UNILAG renaming, he exhibited something rare in Nigerian politics: humility in leadership and submission to the rule of law.
He didn’t insist on “proving strength” through press battles or executive orders. He let the people’s voice guide the outcome; and the law back it up.
In contrast, that Governor Makinde has done appears, at least for now, to bypass institutional autonomy, public concerns and sentiment. He still has the chance to retrace his steps and realign with the principles he once benefited from as a UNILAG alumnus.
The call
To the alumni and students of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, your identity and history matter. Your affiliation with the school is part of your professional and personal journey. Renaming it without your input is not just a branding change; it’s a disruption of memory, pride, and legacy.
Governor Makinde, this is not about disrespect to Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, but about doing things the right way; the same way UNILAG alumni once stood for. The precedent is clear. The message is simple: Let the law and the people guide your leadership.
As an alumnus myself, I don’t believe this needs to be settled in court. The facts are visible to the blind, and the truth audible to the deaf. We ask for reflection, not rebellion.
