Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has reiterated his pledge to serve only one four-year term if elected Nigeria’s president in 2027.
In a statement issued on Sunday titled “My One-Term, Four-Year Vow Is Sacrosanct,” the former Anambra State governor addressed scepticism about his commitment to a single term, drawing parallels with globally respected leaders who prioritised principle over prolonged power.
Peter Obi referenced historical figures including U.S. President John F. Kennedy, whose brief tenure left a lasting impact, and South Africa’s Nelson Mandela, who voluntarily stepped down after one term despite widespread popularity.
“Mandela’s decision was a deliberate act of leadership demonstrating that power should serve the people, not the officeholder,” Obi stated, positioning his pledge within this tradition of self-limiting governance.
Addressing doubts about his sincerity, Obi acknowledged that scepticism stems from Nigeria’s culture of broken political promises, but maintained that his record speaks for itself.
“They judge me by their standards where commitments are routinely abandoned, forgetting Peter Obi operates differently,” he said. The statement emphasised his governance track record in Anambra as evidence of his commitment to accountability.
The presidential aspirant framed his term limit vow as integral to his vision of transformative leadership. “Purposeful, transparent governance doesn’t require decades; four focused years can establish foundations for lasting progress,” he asserted.
Obi’s renewed pledge comes amid growing public debate about political tenure limits and follows his previous declarations during the 2023 election cycle, suggesting his single-term commitment remains a cornerstone of his political philosophy rather than mere campaign rhetoric.
Political analysts note this restatement could differentiate Peter Obi’s 2027 bid by appealing to voters weary of career politicians while potentially influencing the broader conversation about leadership rotation in Nigeria’s democracy.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
