OAU Reveals Why It Declined Use Of Venue For Peter Obi’s Lecture

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife has revealed why a planned lecture by former presidential candidate Peter Obi did not take place on Saturday.

Peter Obi was expected to speak at 9 a.m. at the university before heading to a political summit of opposition parties in Ibadan scheduled for later that day.

The former Anambra State governor had disclosed on X that he received the invitation months ago and that preparations had already been put in place.

But the programme was eventually cancelled after the university did not approve the use of the venue at the last minute.

Reacting to the situation, Obi said the development was concerning, noting that universities, which are meant to be spaces for free thinking and open discussion, are now facing growing limitations.

He added that similar incidents had happened to him several times, suggesting it was becoming a pattern rather than a one-off issue.

Reacting in a statement on Monday, the OAU explained that it could not approve Oduduwa Hall because the request came too late to make proper arrangements.

“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 statement reads.

The university said events involving prominent figures require enough time to organise logistics and ensure security for everyone involved, including the guest, students, staff, and the public.

“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 in order to ensure the safety of the guest, members of the University community and the general public,” it said.

“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 university said the decision was taken “purely in the interest of safety, orderliness and adherence to established protocols governing the use of University facilities”, and not as a reflection of disregard for Obi.

The vice-chancellor, Adebayo Bamire, reaffirmed that the university supports academic discussions and welcomes notable personalities, as long as proper procedures are followed.

The institution also advised organisers to always follow established guidelines when planning events on campus.

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