By The management of Obafemi Awolowo University has clarified the circumstances surrounding the cancellation of a proposed lecture by former presidential candidate Peter Obi, stating that the decision was based on security and procedural considerations rather than personal bias.
According to a press statement issued by the university authorities, the invitation to Obi was initiated by a group within the student body without adequate prior notification to the institution’s management. The university explained that it only became aware of the status and profile of the invited guest a day before the scheduled event.
The institution stressed that visits by high-profile personalities require sufficient advance notice to enable proper coordination of logistics and security arrangements. These include collaboration with relevant agencies such as the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to ensure the safety of all participants.
“Events involving high-profile personalities require adequate prior notification to allow for necessary logistical and security arrangements. The University authorities were not duly informed until Friday, just a day before the programme,” the statement noted.
As a result of the short notice, the university said it was unable to approve the use of Oduduwa Hall, the proposed venue for the lecture. The management emphasized that the decision was taken strictly in the interest of safety, orderliness, and compliance with established protocols governing the use of campus facilities.
“The decision was taken purely in the interest of safety, orderliness and adherence to established protocols. It is not a reflection of disregard for the person or status of His Excellency, Peter Obi, whom the University holds in high esteem,” the statement added.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting intellectual discourse and hosting distinguished guests, provided due process is followed. The university also urged students and organizers to adhere to laid-down procedures in planning events, stressing the need for collective responsibility in maintaining order and institutional standards.
