Why We Declined Venue For Peter Obi Lecture — OAU

The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has clarified why it declined the use of Oduduwa Hall for a proposed lecture by former Labour Party, presidential candidate Peter Obi.

In a statement issued by the university management on Monday, 27 April, 2026, the management said the invitation to Obi was extended by a group within the student body without adequate prior notice to the authorities.

The institution disclosed that it only became fully aware of the status and calibre of the invited guest on Friday, just a day before the scheduled event.

According to the university, visits by high-profile personalities require sufficient advance notice to allow for proper logistical and security arrangements. These according to them include coordination with security agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Department of State Services (DSS).

The Institution further explained that the short notice made it impossible to complete the necessary preparations, prompting the decision to deny access to Oduduwa Hall for the event.

The management emphasized that the move was strictly in the interest of safety, orderliness, and adherence to established protocols governing the use of university facilities. It stressed that the decision does not reflect any lack of respect for Obi, whom it described as a highly regarded figure.

The Vice-Chancellor, Adebayo Simeon Bamire, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to hosting intellectual engagements and notable personalities, provided due process is followed.

The university also urged students, staff, and the general public to comply with laid-down procedures when planning events, noting that adherence to guidelines is essential for the smooth running and development of the institution.