The political atmosphere in Nigeria is heating up as former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, reiterates his pledge to serve only one term if elected president in 2027. His bold declaration has stirred intense debate across the political spectrum.
Obi, who finished third in the 2023 presidential election, has repeatedly emphasized that genuine leaders do not require more than four years to make significant impacts. Drawing examples from historical one-term global leaders, Obi said the transformation of Nigeria is achievable within a single tenure if there is sincerity of purpose.
“I still find it baffling that my decision to do a term of four years, if given the mandate to rule this country, is generating so much agitation,” Obi posted on his X handle. “By this feeling, we are doubting the fact that a sincere leader can achieve much in 48 months.”
While reaffirming his commitment to public service over personal ambition, Obi stated: “I have never been desperate in the pursuit of power. My motivation is a deep commitment to see Nigeria work.”
okay.ng reports that Obi’s promise has reignited discussions about term limits, constitutional boundaries, and whether one term is enough to tackle Nigeria’s deep-rooted challenges.
Opinions vary sharply. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe believes Obi can be trusted, saying, “You can take what Peter Obi says to the bank.” In contrast, APC Senator Neda Imasuen described the promise as lofty but unrealistic: “If he is really serious in helping to solve the problems of Nigeria, one tenure is grossly insufficient.”
Critics such as Chief Chekwas Okorie argue the pledge reeks of desperation, while public figures like Chimamanda Adichie defend Obi’s sincerity, lauding his integrity and refusal to engage in corrupt political practices.
Other political voices, including PANDEF’s Ken Robinson and CUPP’s Peter Ameh, offered nuanced takes. Ameh called the one-term vow a strategic move rooted in constitutional awareness, arguing: “It emphasizes that a second term is not a guaranteed bonus but a privilege earned through democratic election.”
Whether strategic or sincere, Obi’s promise has become a defining issue of the 2027 political landscape.
