Former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, presidential candidate for the Labour Party in 2023, has renewed his one-term pledge, promising to serve just four years if elected president in 2027. Obi insists that true leadership should be service-driven, not power-hungry and he believes that a committed leader can effectively transform Nigeria within a single term.
His stance comes amid speculation that, should a Southerner succeed President Bola Tinubu (assuming Tinubu does not win a second term), the South would dominate 12 consecutive years in power, undermining Nigeria’s unwritten zoning principle. Obi, however, dismissed such claims, emphasizing that a one-term promise aligns with responsible governance.
Reactions have been mixed. Supporters view Obi’s pledge as a refreshing commitment to public service, while critics label it a political gimmick, suggesting it may be a strategy to maintain relevance or curb public disillusionment.
Prominent voices weighing in include Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA-Abia), Senator Neda Imasuen (APC-Edo South), Chief Chekwas Okorie, Senator Dayo Adeyeye (SWAGA), Dr. Ken Robinson (PANDEF), Joseph Ambakederimo (South-South Reawakening Group), and Chief Peter Ameh (CUPP). Cultural and political figures such as novelist Chimamanda Adichie, Biodun Sanya-Olu (PDP, Ogun), Ayo Fadaka (former PDP Southwest publicity secretary), Mr Stephen Adewale (former SDP state chairman), and Kola Olabisi (APC, Osun spokesperson) have also voiced opinions, from praise to skepticism, on the implications of Obi’s renewed vow.
Obi reiterated that service should remain the overriding motive in public office, and with sincere purpose, meaningful progress can indeed be achieved in just four years.
