The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has clarified why it declined a request to use a campus venue for a lecture scheduled to be delivered by the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi.
The institution’s explanation followed concerns raised by Obi, who earlier alleged a growing trend of cancelled engagements involving him at universities across the country. He warned that such developments could pose a threat to intellectual freedom in higher institutions.
In a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, the management said organisers of the lecture failed to disclose the profile of the guest ahead of time. According to the university, the details were only made available on Friday, barely a day before the planned event.
The statement noted that the limited notice prevented the school from making essential security and logistical preparations required for visits by prominent personalities.
“The general public is hereby informed that a particular group within the Students’ body extended an invitation to the former presidential candidate and two-term governor of Anambra State to deliver a lecture within the University premises.
“It is important to note that events involving high-profile personalities of such standing require adequate prior notification to the university authorities because it will enable the institution to make necessary logistical and security arrangements, including proper liaison with relevant security agencies such as the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS), to ensure the safety of the guests, members of the university community and the general public.
“Consequently, given the short notice and the attendant inability to complete these critical arrangements, the university authorities could not approve the use of Oduduwa Hall for the event as requested by the organisers,” the statement read.
The management stressed that the decision was based on safety considerations and compliance with established procedures. It added that the action should not be interpreted as a slight on the former governor.
“It is not, in any way, a reflection of disregard for the person or status of His Excellency, Peter Obi, whom the university holds in high esteem.”
Obi, however, had earlier disclosed that he was billed to deliver a keynote lecture at OAU by 9 a.m. before heading to Ibadan for a political summit scheduled for noon. He said he received notice that the lecture had been cancelled shortly before the event.
He further stated that the situation was not isolated, revealing that similar incidents had occurred on more than 10 occasions.
“While such occurrences may be dismissed in isolation, it is important to state clearly that this has now happened more than 10 times.
“This is no longer incidental; it points to a troubling pattern that should concern all well-meaning Nigerians,” he said.
