NIGERIA: Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has restated his commitment to serving only one term if elected president in 2027, insisting that four years is sufficient to deliver results if leadership is driven by service.
Obi made the remarks in a post on his verified X handle Tuesday, August 5, 2025, where he expressed concern over the reactions generated by his earlier pledge to govern for a single term.
He maintained that his position is neither a campaign gimmick nor a sign of desperation, but a reflection of his leadership philosophy, reports The Guardian.
“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,” he said. “By this feeling, we are doubting the fact that a sincere leader can achieve much in 48 months.”
Addressing criticisms that have trailed his one-term promise, Obi rejected claims that it reflected political desperation. According to him, his political conduct has always been consistent with restraint and principle.
“I have never been desperate in the pursuit of power, or anything else, for that matter,” he said.
“There are some traits associated with desperation, which in no way are in any of my political behaviours in the past and now.”
Obi outlined those traits as including “overly aggressive rhetoric,” “making unfulfillable promises,” and “frequently changing positions to suit immediate political needs.”
He stressed that his approach to politics has been one of calm engagement and civility.
“What drives me is not personal ambition, but a deep commitment to see Nigeria work,” he said.
“And if the sacrifice required of me is four years of sincere, accountable leadership, so be it.”
The former governor used the opportunity to defend his record in public office, stating that he has never been associated with electoral malpractice or political violence.
He also challenged anyone to present evidence to the contrary.
“Throughout my political journey, I have never been involved in thuggery, the snatching of ballot boxes, or any form of electoral malpractice,” he said.
“I challenge anyone: conduct your investigations. You will find no stains of rigging or violence associated with my name.”
He further stated, “Ask those who have contested against me — none were ever denied their rights, framed, or falsely accused.”
Obi argued that a focused administration could achieve significant progress within a single term.
He cited corruption, wasteful public spending, and poor governance as issues that can be addressed meaningfully within four years.
“In four years we can confront corruption head-on, redirecting resources to priority areas,” he said.
“The trillions used to acquire new presidential jets and other unnecessary expenses at this time could have been channelled into education, healthcare, or infrastructure.”
He added that the same period would be enough to establish rule of law, improve democratic processes, and rebuild public trust.
“Within the same period, we can conduct free, fair, and credible elections,” he said. “Leadership, to me, is not about entitlement. It is about service.”
Obi’s renewed one-term pledge comes amid public debate and political criticism. Commentators such as Reuben Abati and presidential adviser Bayo Onanuga have dismissed his promise as unrealistic and politically motivated.
Onanuga also faulted Obi’s earlier references to global leaders like Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela, arguing that their tenures do not support the point Obi sought to make.
Obi, however, did not respond directly to the counterclaims but maintained that his motivation stems from a desire to serve, not to hold onto power.
“If given the mandate, for just one term, I will dedicate every moment to building a Nigeria that works for all,” he said.
