The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has clarified why it declined approval of venue for a public lecture by opposition leader, Peter Obi, attributing the decision to inadequate notice from organisers of the event.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, the university said it was unable to approve the use of Oduduwa Hall due to late communication and insufficient details about the event.
The clarification followed concerns raised by Obi, who had earlier lamented what he described as a “growing pattern” of cancelled engagements at Nigerian universities, a development he warned poses a threat to intellectual freedom.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, in a statement shared via X on Saturday, disclosed that he had been scheduled to deliver a keynote lecture at the university by 9 a.m. on Saturday before proceeding to Ibadan, Oyo State, for the Opposition Parties’ Summit. However, he said he was informed that the event had been called off. He noted that the incident was not isolated, alleging a ‘troubling pattern’.
“This is no longer incidental; it points to a troubling pattern that should concern all well-meaning Nigerians,” the former Anambra State governor said.
But, responding, the university maintained that organisers only provided necessary information about the event on Friday, barely 24 hours before the scheduled programme, making it impossible to complete required preparations.
“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,” the statement read.
The university pointed out that such arrangements include coordination with relevant security agencies such as the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS).
“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 added.
The university emphasised that its decision was guided strictly by safety considerations and institutional protocols, stressing that it should not be interpreted as a slight against Obi.
