Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has declared that he will serve only one four-year term if elected President in 2027.
Obi made this promise in a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, drawing inspiration from iconic global leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela—figures he described as examples of purposeful leadership despite their limited time in office.
“Longevity in power is not proof of successful leadership,” Obi stated. “It is the quality, integrity, and impact of service—no matter how short—that defines true statesmanship.”
Referencing Mandela’s decision to serve a single term as South Africa’s president, Obi said the late leader made a conscious choice to show that power should serve the people, not personal interests. He emphasized that many African leaders tend to become corrupt the longer they remain in power.
Reaffirming his stance, Obi declared, “I will serve only one term of four years if elected President. And that vow is sacrosanct.”
Acknowledging growing public distrust in politicians, Obi said his record in office speaks for itself. He highlighted how, during his tenure as governor, he fulfilled promises related to education, healthcare, rural infrastructure, and financial transparency—without wavering.
“My political life has always been guided by integrity. I’ve never needed to swear by any shrine to honour my words,” he said. “Forty-eight months is enough for any focused and prepared leader to make a meaningful difference.”
Obi added that his one-term pledge is rooted in his belief that good governance is measured by the quality of impact, not the number of years in office.
“If making such a promise attracts questions about my mental fitness, then perhaps we should question those who wrote the Constitution that clearly provides for a four-year renewable term,” he added. “I will not stay a day longer than four years if elected. Leadership must regain its credibility.”
Obi’s renewed commitment comes as he continues to build support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
