Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has made a public commitment to serve only a single four-year term if elected President in the 2027 general election.
In a statement released on Sunday via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi drew inspiration from global icons known for their principled leadership and limited time in power. He cited historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela, all of whom, according to him, left lasting legacies within a short time in office.
“History reveals that when many African leaders remain in office for too long, they often fall victim to the corrupting influence of power,” Obi said.
In the lengthy statement, Obi stressed that true leadership is measured not by duration in office but by the quality and accountability of service. He reiterated that his pledge to serve for only one term is not a political gimmick, but a firm and personal commitment.
“My vow to serve for only four years as President is not negotiable,” he declared.
He added, “Abraham Lincoln, one of America’s greatest presidents, served just four years, yet his legacy endures. John F. Kennedy didn’t even complete a full term, but his ideals continue to inspire. Nelson Mandela, who could have remained President of South Africa longer, stepped down after one term despite immense public pressure. That decision was a statement — a powerful reminder that leadership is about serving the people, not clinging to power.”
Obi maintained that staying too long in office often taints leaders, particularly in Africa, where institutional checks are weak. He argued that effective leadership should be short, focused, and accountable, rather than indefinite and self-serving.
“I want to make it abundantly clear: if elected, I will serve only one term. That is my vow. I understand that many Nigerians are sceptical about political promises — and rightly so. The culture of broken promises has made trust extremely scarce in our society,” he said.
He noted that his political journey in Anambra State was defined by specific and measurable goals, which he achieved without deviation. These included improvements in education, healthcare, rural infrastructure, and financial management — all of which, he asserted, were fulfilled as promised.
“My political record speaks for itself. I didn’t need to swear an oath at any shrine, nor have I lost my sanity because I honoured my words,” he stated.
According to him, making a solemn vow to serve for only four years should not be considered abnormal. He argued that if such a promise seems odd in today’s Nigeria, then the problem lies not with the vow, but with a broken political system.
“If some believe that committing to a single term warrants psychiatric evaluation, then perhaps we should question the mental health of those who drafted our Constitution, which allows for a four-year renewable tenure,” Obi said.
He concluded by saying: “I repeat without hesitation — I will not exceed four years in office if elected. For me, leadership is about impact, not permanence. We must begin to rebuild the broken trust in governance. I have proven that integrity in leadership is possible, and I am not about to change that now. Four years is more than enough for a focused and prepared leader to bring about real transformation.”
Join our Chronicles Reporters WhatsApp Channel for more updates:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VabITrvEAKW7DSkTfP0J