Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has restated his vow to serve only one four-year term if elected president in 2027, insisting the promise is “sacrosanct” despite skepticism from political figures, including Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo.
Obi’s reaffirmation came in a lengthy statement shared on his official X handle on Sunday, responding indirectly to comments by Soludo, who recently questioned the sincerity of such a pledge. Soludo had remarked that any politician promising to serve only one term despite being constitutionally entitled to two should “see a psychiatrist.”
Citing global leaders as examples, Obi said history has proven that impactful leadership is measured by quality, not duration in office.
“One of the greatest American Presidents, Abraham Lincoln, served only four years, yet his legacy endures as a model of principled leadership. Another iconic figure, John F. Kennedy, did not even complete a full term, yet his ideals still inspire generations,” Obi wrote.
“In Africa, Nelson Mandela chose to serve only one term as South Africa’s president despite public pressure to stay longer — a statement that power must serve the people, not the self.”
Obi emphasised that trust in leadership remains scarce in Nigeria, but pointed to his political track record as evidence of keeping promises.
“In Anambra State, I made measurable commitments — to improve education, healthcare, and infrastructure, and to manage public funds with prudence. I delivered on each without deviation,” he said.
Reiterating that 48 months is enough for focused leadership, Obi outlined his priorities should he win the presidency: reforming governance, tackling insecurity, prioritising education and healthcare, boosting small businesses, fighting corruption, and transitioning Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based one.
“If elected, I will not spend a day longer than four years in office. Impactful service does not require eternity,” Obi declared.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to believe that transformative change is possible within a single term.
“These are not utopian dreams. They are realistic, actionable goals achievable within four years. A new Nigeria is possible.”
