The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has said it declined approval for a proposed lecture by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi because organisers failed to provide adequate notice for the event.
The university said details of the programme and Obi’s participation were only formally communicated on Friday, less than 24 hours before the lecture scheduled for Saturday, making it impossible to complete necessary security and logistical preparations.
In a statement by the Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, OAU explained that events involving high-profile personalities require prior notification and coordination with security agencies, including the police and the Department of State Services, to ensure safety.
The institution said the decision not to approve the use of Oduduwa Hall was based strictly on established protocols and not intended as a slight against Obi, stressing that due process guided its action.
Obi had earlier raised concern over the cancellation, describing it as part of a troubling pattern after similar incidents in recent months, but the university maintained the development was solely due to procedural and security considerations.