The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, has explained why it rejected the proposed venue for a lecture by Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate. The university cited short notice from the organisers as the primary reason for the decision.
Obi was scheduled to deliver a keynote lecture at the university on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 9 a.m., before proceeding to Ibadan for an opposition parties' summit. However, he was later informed that the event had been called off.
The former Anambra State governor described the cancellation as not an isolated incident, noting that similar cancellations had occurred more than ten times in the past.
OAU Spokesperson Issues Statement
Reacting to Obi's allegations, the university's Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, issued a statement on Sunday, April 26, 2026. He explained that the organisers failed to provide adequate details about the event and the guest until Friday, a day before the programme.
Olarewaju noted that the short notice made it impossible for the university to implement necessary security measures and logistical arrangements required for hosting high-profile personalities. He emphasised that the decision was made in the interest of safety and adherence to established protocols, and not out of disregard for Obi's person or status.
“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), to ensure the safety of the guests, members of the university community and the general public,” Olarewaju stated.
He added that due to the short notice and the inability to complete these critical arrangements, the university could not approve the use of Oduduwa Hall for the event as requested by the organisers.
Political Context and Alliances
In related developments, Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso are reportedly considering a joint presidential ticket for the 2027 election. Their alliance is said to focus on securing northern support through a one-term power-sharing deal. A newly formed pro-Obi-Kwankwaso group, the 'OK Movement', aims to mobilise support amid Nigeria's ongoing challenges.
Additionally, Obi recently held a closed-door meeting with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed at the Government House Presidential Lounge in Bauchi. The discussions are believed to be linked to evolving political developments and possible future alignments among key political actors. Both leaders were expected to address journalists after the meeting as part of ongoing cross-party consultations.
