The Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has explained that its refusal to approve a proposed lecture by Peter Obi was due to security concerns, logistical limitations, and failure to follow established procedures.
According to the university’s spokesperson, Abiodun Olarewaju, the institution was informed of the planned event less than 24 hours before it was scheduled to take place. He noted that although a student group had invited the former Anambra State governor, full details about the guest and programme were only submitted at the last minute.
The university stated that visits involving high-profile personalities require sufficient notice to allow for proper planning and coordination with security agencies such as the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services.
Due to the limited timeframe, the institution said it could not complete the necessary arrangements or approve the use of Oduduwa Hall for the lecture.
OAU emphasized that the decision was not a slight against Obi, whom it described as a respected figure, but was strictly based on safety considerations and adherence to institutional guidelines.
The Vice-Chancellor, Adebayo Simeon Bamire, was also said to remain open to hosting academic engagements and notable personalities, provided organisers comply with the university’s procedures.
The institution advised student groups and event planners to follow due process when scheduling activities, stressing that proper coordination is essential for maintaining order and ensuring safety on campus.
