Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, has denied embarrassing former presidential candidate Peter Obi, stating that the cancellation of his scheduled lecture was driven entirely by security and logistical concerns arising from inadequate notice.

The clarification came through a press statement issued on Sunday by the university's Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, who explained that a student group had invited Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, to speak on campus without the knowledge of university management.

Olarewaju disclosed that "the University authorities were not duly informed of the status and calibre of the guest until Friday, just a day before the scheduled programme."

The spokesperson emphasised that events involving high profile personalities require sufficient advance notice to allow the institution to coordinate security and logistical arrangements.

He noted that "such notice allows the institution to make logistical and security arrangements, including liaison with the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services, DSS," adding that "this is necessary to ensure the safety of the guest, members of the university community and the general public."

Olarewaju stated that due to the short notice, "the university could not complete the required arrangements and therefore did not approve the use of Oduduwa Hall for the event."

The university maintained that the decision was taken purely in the interest of safety, orderliness, and adherence to established protocols, stressing that it was not a reflection of disregard for Obi.

Vice Chancellor Adebayo Simeon Bamire reaffirmed the institution's commitment to hosting distinguished personalities, provided due process is followed. The University also called on students, staff, and the general public to comply with established procedures when planning events within the institution.

Olarewaju stressed that the Institution holds Obi in high esteem and that the development should not be misread as an act of disrespect toward the former governor.