Labor Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has lamented the downgrading of the city of Ibadan’s status.
According to a Sunday statement from his campaign council, Obi spoke during a courtesy call on Ibadan’s Olubadan Oba Olalekan Balogun on Saturday.
He was quoted as having complained that the “University of Ibadan, known for its quality education, has become a shadow of its former self.”
However, during the visit, Obi vowed to restore the educational status of the institutions in Ibadan if he is elected president in 2023.
The statement read in part: “In the past, according to Obi, people came from all over the country and outside of Nigeria seeking a quality university education at the famous citadel of learning, the University of Ibadan. Today, the university, unfortunately, is now a shadow of its former self.
“He also commented on the very high reputation of UCH as a medical center of excellence patronized by all African citizens.
“Obi promised that as the president of Nigeria, he will restore the educational status of these institutions and thus bring the city of Ibadan back to its lost glory.”
In his reply, Olubadan was said to have advised Obi to remain focused and committed to his programs.
A member of the Olubadan traditional council, the Balogun of Ibadan, Tajudeen Ajibola, speaking on behalf of the monarch, said: “How will our people live safely and how to ensure that the 2023 general election is held without any violence, these are the concerns of Olubadan.”