Why we denied Obi lecture venue, by OAU
The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has explained that inadequate notice and the inability to put necessary security arrangements in place were the reasons it denied a request
The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has explained that inadequate notice and the inability to put necessary security arrangements in place were the reasons it denied a request to use Oduduwa Hall for a proposed lecture by former presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
In a press statement shared on its official X page on Monday, the university explained that the invitation to Obi was initiated by a group within the student body without proper prior notification to the institution’s authorities.
According to the statement, “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 management stressed that visits by high-profile personalities require sufficient notice to enable proper coordination, particularly with security agencies such as the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS).
“It is important to note that events involving high-profile personalities of such standing require adequate prior notification… to make necessary logistical and security arrangements in order to ensure the safety of the guest, members of the University community and the general public,” the statement read.
OAU said the short notice made it impossible to complete the necessary preparations, forcing the authorities to withhold approval for the use of the venue.
“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,” it added.
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The institution clarified that the decision was not a slight on Obi, noting that he remains highly regarded by the university.
“The decision was taken purely in the interest of safety, orderliness and adherence to established protocols. It is not, in any way, a reflection of disregard for the person or status of His Excellency, Peter Obi, whom the University holds in high esteem,” the statement said.
The Vice-Chancellor, Adebayo Simeon Bamire, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to hosting intellectual engagements, provided due process is followed.
The university also urged students and organisers to adhere strictly to laid-down procedures when planning events, emphasising the need for collective responsibility in maintaining order and safety within the campus.
