Presidential hopeful and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, has firmly defended his vow to serve only a single four-year term if elected president in 2027, saying the pledge is a mark of sincerity — not desperation.
In a statement shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, Obi addressed mounting criticism over his one-term commitment, insisting it stems from a deep desire to transform Nigeria, not personal ambition or a power grab.
“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 wrote. “By this feeling, we are doubting the fact that a sincere leader can achieve much in 48 months.”
Responding to claims that his promise is both desperate and unrealistic, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate pushed back strongly.
“I have never been desperate in the pursuit of power, or anything else, for that matter,” he said. “There are certain traits associated with desperation — aggressive rhetoric, paranoia, unrealistic promises, personal attacks, policy flip-flops. None of these can be found in my political behaviour.”
Obi, widely seen as a disciplined and principled voice in Nigerian politics, reiterated that his political philosophy has always been about putting the nation first.
“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 to conduct their investigations — you will find no stains of rigging or violence associated with my name.”
According to Obi, four years is enough time to initiate key reforms that could significantly reshape Nigeria’s future.
“In four years, we can confront corruption head-on and redirect public resources to critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. For instance, the trillions being used to acquire new presidential jets and fund frivolous expenses could have been better invested in national development,” he argued.
He also pledged to uphold the rule of law and electoral integrity within his proposed single term: “We can ensure that the rule of law is sacrosanct and strictly followed. We can conduct free, fair, and credible elections.”
Obi emphasized that leadership, for him, is not about entitlement or personal gain, but delivering measurable impact to the people.
His one-term promise has since sparked widespread debate across Nigeria’s political space, becoming one of the most talked-about issues ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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