The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has reacted to the controversy surrounding the cancelled lecture involving former presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
The institution denied allegations that it disrespected or embarrassed the former Anambra State governor.
Cliq.ng reports that the clarification came in a statement released on Sunday by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju.
The statement addressed growing reactions from the public following reports that Obi’s planned appearance at the campus was disrupted.
According to the university, the invitation for the lecture did not follow proper communication channels. The management explained that the event was organised by a group within the student body without formally notifying the appropriate authorities ahead of time.
Olarewaju stated, “the university authorities were not duly informed about the invitation or the status of the guest until Friday, just a day before the scheduled programme.”
He stressed that the late notice made it difficult for the institution to make adequate preparations. Events involving prominent public figures, he said, require careful planning and coordination.
He further noted, “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.”
