The renaming of the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University has sparked outrage among the Abuja Indigenous Students Association (AISA), who have strongly condemned the move.
The controversy erupted after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the change during a meeting on Monday. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, made the announcement, stating that the institution would now bear the name of former head of state, Yakubu Gowon.
Students under AISA, however, have declared their firm opposition to the decision, describing it as an attack on the identity and cultural heritage of Abuja natives.
Speaking on Tuesday, AISA President Comrade Adamu Abdulbasit voiced the group’s deep concerns about the implications of the name change.
He emphasized that the University of Abuja represents a unique symbol of pride and belonging for the people of Abuja and Nigerians at large.
“This university is more than just a federal institution; it is a part of our history,” Abdulbasit said.
“Changing its name to honor even a distinguished former leader undermines the identity of Abuja’s people and erases a crucial part of our collective memory,” he added.
Students Decry Loss of Identity
The indigenous students argue that the name “University of Abuja” carries a significance that transcends mere branding.
According to them, the university reflects Abuja’s role as the nation’s capital and serves as a unifying symbol for all Nigerians.
Renaming it after a single individual, they claim, detracts from its original purpose and distorts its national character.
“The University of Abuja belongs to all Nigerians,” Abdulbasit said.
“It is a federal institution, and its name should reflect its inclusive and national spirit, not the legacy of an individual.”
The students fear that such changes could set a dangerous precedent for erasing local identities in the name of political decisions.
Calls for Action Against the Renaming
AISA has urged the National Assembly, the Federal Ministry of Education, and other stakeholders to reject the proposed renaming.
In their statement, the association called on Nigerians to unite against what they see as a misguided decision.
They argued that the university’s name should remain untouched to preserve its historical and cultural significance.
“We appeal to all well-meaning Nigerians to stand with us in this fight to protect the name and identity of our beloved institution,” the group stated.
They also called for greater dialogue and consultation before such decisions are made in the future.
“This cannot and should not happen without proper engagement with all stakeholders, including the indigenous people of Abuja,” Abdulbasit said.
A Symbol of Unity or Controversy?
The proposed renaming has ignited debates across the country about the appropriateness of naming national institutions after individuals.
While some argue that former leaders like Yakubu Gowon deserve recognition for their service, others believe such decisions risk alienating local communities.
Critics of the move have pointed out that Gowon’s legacy, while significant, is not without controversy, and associating his name with the university could polarize opinions.
On social media, many Nigerians expressed solidarity with the students, calling the decision “insensitive” and “politically motivated.”
Others suggested that the government should consider creating new institutions to honor past leaders rather than renaming existing ones.
“Why not establish a new university to celebrate Gowon’s contributions instead of renaming one that already holds deep significance for the people of Abuja?” a Twitter user wrote.
A Battle for Heritage
The issue goes beyond the name change for many Abuja natives.
For them, this decision symbolizes a larger struggle to preserve their cultural identity in a rapidly changing federal capital.
AISA leaders have vowed to continue resisting the renaming until the government rescinds its decision.
“This is not just about a name. It is about our identity, our heritage, and our history,” Abdulbasit declared.
As the debate rages on, all eyes are now on the National Assembly and other stakeholders to determine the fate of the University of Abuja.
For the students, however, one thing remains clear: the name “University of Abuja” is non-negotiable.
“This is our university, and we will fight to keep it that way,” Abdulbasit said.
