Obi to Soludo: My One-Term Vow Is Sacrosanct
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his commitment to serving only a single four-year term if elected President in 2027.
Obi’s statement, shared via his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, appeared to be a direct response to a recent jab by Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo. At a public event, Soludo had mocked Obi’s one-term pledge, suggesting that any politician who voluntarily limits themselves to a single term—despite the Constitution allowing two—should be referred for psychiatric evaluation.
Responding, Obi drew on historical examples to defend his stance.
“One of the greatest American presidents, Abraham Lincoln, served only four years, yet his legacy endures as a model of principled leadership,” Obi wrote. “Another iconic figure, John F. Kennedy, didn’t complete a full term, yet his vision continues to inspire generations.
“In Africa, Nelson Mandela, globally revered as a symbol of justice and reconciliation, chose to serve only one term as President of South Africa, despite immense public pressure to remain in office. His decision was a deliberate act of leadership—a statement that power must serve the people, not the self.”
Obi argued that longevity in office is not a measure of success, but that purposeful, accountable leadership—regardless of duration—is the true hallmark of statesmanship.
“It is within this context that I reiterate my vow: I will serve only one term of four years if elected President. That vow is sacrosanct.”
Addressing the skepticism around his promise, Obi acknowledged the widespread public mistrust of politicians.
“I am fully aware that societal decay has made trust one of the rarest commodities in Nigeria today. Many citizens, understandably, no longer take politicians at their word. But even in this climate of cynicism, a few of us remain guided by precedent and integrity.”
He referenced two public remarks directed at his vow: one expressing disbelief even if he “swore by a shrine,” and another recommending psychiatric evaluation.
“I understand the basis for their skepticism—they are judging me by their own standards, where political promises are routinely broken. But they forget, or choose to ignore, that I am not cut from that cloth. I have a verifiable track record that speaks louder than speculation,” Obi said.
Recalling his tenure as governor of Anambra State, Obi stated: “When I entered politics, I made clear and measurable promises to improve education and healthcare, expand rural infrastructure, and manage public funds prudently. I fulfilled those promises without deviation.”
He stressed that his one-term vow is a solemn, deliberate commitment grounded in his belief that true leadership does not require indefinite time in office.
“If making such a promise qualifies me for psychiatric evaluation, then we must question the mental fitness of those who framed our Constitution, which clearly stipulates a four-year renewable tenure.”
Obi insisted: “If elected, I will not spend a day longer than four years in office. Forty-eight months is enough for any focused and prepared leader to make a meaningful difference.”
He outlined his vision for his proposed single term: to restore integrity in governance, tackle insecurity, prioritize education and healthcare, catalyze small business growth, and wage a resolute fight against corruption. His overarching goal, he said, is to transform Nigeria from a consuming to a productive nation through agriculture, technology, and manufacturing.
“These are not utopian dreams—they are achievable goals within four years. A new Nigeria is POssible,” Obi concluded.
Obi Not Yet a Card-Carrying ADC Member—Source
Meanwhile, a source within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) disclosed yesterday in Abuja that Mr. Obi has not formally joined the party as a card-carrying member, despite his visible involvement in the ADC-led coalition for opposition unity.
According to the source, the ADC has granted Obi—and other political figures including former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai—a special waiver. This allows them to maintain their existing party affiliations while actively participating in the coalition’s activities.
“Peter Obi hasn’t officially joined the ADC, but he’s very much involved in the coalition’s efforts,” the source said. “The waiver enables him to continue supporting LP candidates, particularly in upcoming elections like the Anambra governorship poll, while contributing to a stronger, united opposition through the ADC-led initiative.”
The source further explained that the current arrangement is strategic, with a decision on formal party realignments expected after key electoral contests.
“For now, the plan is to maintain the status quo until after elections such as the Anambra race. At that point, leaders like Obi will reassess and decide whether to fully join the ADC or continue working within the broader coalition framework,” the source added