Labour Party presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has openly reaffirmed his commitment to a single-term presidency if elected, urging Nigerians to scrutinize his public record. The former Anambra State governor challenged critics and the public to investigate his political career, insisting that no blemish would be found.
Obi, in a statement issued on Tuesday, expressed surprise over the controversy surrounding his pledge to serve only four years as president. “It’s baffling that my commitment to a single term is causing such agitation. Are we saying a sincere leader can’t accomplish significant progress in 48 months?” he asked.
He emphasized that his political aspirations are driven by a genuine desire to serve, not personal ambition or desperation. Obi listed traits he believes indicate desperation—such as making unrealistic promises, personal attacks, and erratic policy changes—and stressed that such tactics have never been part of his political behavior.
“My drive is not born of self-interest but from a firm commitment to rebuild Nigeria. If I must sacrifice four years of sincere, transparent governance, so be it,” he said.
Obi challenged Nigerians to examine his record: “I have never engaged in electoral malpractice, ballot box snatching, or violence. I stand for peace and fairness. I invite anyone to investigate—I am confident no wrongdoing will be found.”
He maintained that all his political contests have been marked by respect and fairness toward opponents, adding, “No one who ran against me was denied their rights, maligned, or pressured. I believe in healthy competition, not manipulative politics.”
Obi also stated that substantial reforms could be achieved within four years. “With the right leadership, we can fight corruption, reduce wasteful spending like excessive aircraft purchases, and reinvest in education, healthcare, and infrastructure,” he said.
He underscored his governance philosophy: “Leadership isn’t an entitlement—it’s a responsibility. If elected, I’ll spend every moment of my single term working to build a Nigeria that benefits all.”
However, Obi’s renewed commitment drew criticism from Bayo Onanuga, a spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu. Onanuga accused Obi of inconsistency, referencing his re-election as Anambra governor in 2010 despite earlier promises not to seek a second term.
“You’re not Mandela, Lincoln, or Kennedy. You’ve held office before, and your performance in Anambra doesn’t support your lofty promises,” Onanuga stated. He also accused Obi of political opportunism, questioning his defection from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) after previously vowing loyalty to the party.
“You talk about trust and keeping promises—but your past suggests otherwise,” Onanuga added.
Despite the criticism, Obi remains resolute in his position, reiterating via social media that with sincerity of purpose, Nigeria’s direction could be positively altered in just four years.
“If service is the motive, turning the tide in four years is possible,” he tweeted.
