The management of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, has explained that the decision to decline a proposed lecture by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi was based on safety considerations, orderliness, and adherence to established procedures for the use of university facilities.
The institution, through its Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, said the organizers and the invited guests notified the university of the event less than 24 hours before its scheduled date.
In a statement on Sunday, he explained that a student group had extended the invitation to Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, to deliver a lecture on campus.
He noted, however, that the university authorities were only formally informed of the guest’s nature and profile a day before the programme.
Olarewaju stressed that events involving high-profile individuals require adequate prior notification to enable proper logistical planning and coordination with security agencies such as the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS).
He said this was necessary to ensure the safety of the guest, members of the university community, and the public.
According to him, due to the short notice and inability to complete the required arrangements, approval to use Oduduwa Hall for the event was not granted.
The spokesperson added that the decision was not a reflection of disregard for Obi, whom the university holds in high regard, but was taken strictly in the interest of safety and adherence to protocol.
He further stated that the Vice-Chancellor, Adebayo Simeon Bamire, remains committed to supporting intellectual engagements and hosting distinguished guests, provided due process is followed.
Olarewaju also urged members of the university community and event organisers to comply with established procedures in planning activities on campus, noting that such compliance is essential for effective coordination and institutional order.
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