The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has reacted to the controversy surrounding the cancelled lecture involving former presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The institution denied allegations that it disrespected or embarrassed the former Anambra State governor.
Politics Nigeria reports that the clarification came in a statement released on Sunday by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju.
The statement addressed growing reactions from the public following reports that Obi’s planned appearance at the campus was disrupted.
According to the university, the invitation for the lecture did not follow proper communication channels. The management explained that the event was organised by a group within the student body without formally notifying the appropriate authorities ahead of time.
Olarewaju stated, “the university authorities were not duly informed about the invitation or the status of the guest until Friday, just a day before the scheduled programme.”
He stressed that the late notice made it difficult for the institution to make adequate preparations. Events involving prominent public figures, he said, require careful planning and coordination.
He further noted, “The university authorities were not duly informed of the status and calibre of the invited guest until Friday, just a day before the scheduled programme.”
The university spokesman explained that such events usually involve collaboration with security agencies. These include the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS), to ensure safety on campus.
Olarewaju added, “such notice allows the institution to make logistical and security arrangements, including liaison with the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services, DSS.”
He also stated, “This is necessary in order to ensure the safety of the guest, members of the university community and the general public.”
Due to the short notice, the university said it could not complete the necessary arrangements. As a result, approval was not granted for the use of Oduduwa Hall, the proposed venue for the lecture.
The statement read that “the university could not complete the required arrangements and therefore did not approve the use of Oduduwa Hall for the event.”
The management maintained that the decision was based strictly on safety concerns and established procedures. It insisted that the move should not be interpreted as a slight against Obi.
The institution added that it holds the former presidential candidate in high regard and remains open to hosting him in the future under proper arrangements.
The Vice Chancellor, Adebayo Simeon Bamire, also reaffirmed the university’s willingness to receive notable personalities. He emphasised that due process must always be followed.
The university urged students and organisers to adhere to laid-down procedures when planning events on campus. It warned that failure to do so could lead to disruptions or cancellations.