The management of Obafemi Awolowo University has clarified the reasons behind its decision to decline a proposed lecture by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, citing late communication and failure to follow due process.
According to the university, official notice of the event and Obi’s participation was received less than 24 hours before the scheduled time, making it impossible to finalise essential logistics and security arrangements.
The institution emphasised that events involving high-profile personalities require adequate planning and coordination with relevant security agencies, including the police and the Department of State Services, to ensure safety and order on campus.
Peter Obi had earlier disclosed plans to deliver a keynote lecture at the Ile-Ife institution before proceeding to Ibadan for an opposition leaders’ summit. Following the development, he described the cancellation as part of a worrying pattern affecting similar engagements.
However, the university’s spokesperson, Abiodun Olarewaju, maintained that the decision was strictly procedural and not influenced by political or personal considerations. He added that approval for the use of Oduduwa Hall was denied because the required protocols for hosting such a major event were not met in time.
