Obafemi Awolowo University says it turned down a venue request for a Peter Obi lecture because organizers gave just one day’s notice.
In a statement, OAU PRO Abiodun Olarewaju said the school got “insufficient details about the event and its guest” until 24 hours before the scheduled date.
High-profile visits need time for security and protocol, management said. That includes coordination with the Nigeria Police Force and DSS. The short notice made it “impossible to complete necessary logistical and security arrangements” for Oduduwa Hall.
OAU stressed the refusal was based on safety and protocol, not Obi’s status. The university said he is “held in high regard.”
Obi had earlier flagged a “growing pattern” of cancelled campus engagements, saying he’s had over 10 such incidents at Nigerian universities. He warned the trend could threaten intellectual freedom in higher institutions.
OAU insists the decision was procedural. With no time to clear security, Oduduwa Hall stayed shut.
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