The authorities of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, have explained why they declined approval for the proposed venue of a lecture to be delivered by the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi. In a statement released on Sunday, the university said the decision was due to the short notice given by the event organizers.
Background of the Controversy
Obi had earlier raised concerns over what he described as a growing pattern of cancelled engagements at Nigerian universities, warning that such actions could undermine intellectual freedom. In a statement shared via X on Saturday, Obi said he was scheduled to deliver a keynote lecture at OAU by 9 a.m. before proceeding to Ibadan for an opposition parties' summit. However, he was informed that the event had been called off. The former Anambra governor noted that this was not an isolated incident, as similar cancellations had occurred more than ten times.
University's Response
In a statement issued by the institution's Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, the university clarified that the organizers failed to provide adequate details about the event and the invited guest until Friday, a day before the programme. According to the statement, the short notice made it impossible for the university to make the necessary security and logistical arrangements required for hosting high-profile personalities.
“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, including proper liaison with relevant security agencies such as the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS), in order to ensure the safety of the guests, members of the university community and the general public,” the statement read.
“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,” it added.
Implications for Academic Freedom
Obi's comments have sparked a broader debate about the state of academic freedom in Nigeria. Many observers have expressed concern that such cancellations could discourage intellectual discourse and limit the exchange of ideas within university campuses. However, OAU's explanation highlights the practical challenges institutions face in ensuring security and order during high-profile events.
