Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate for the Labour Party (LP), has stated he will only serve a single four-year term if he is elected as President in 2027.
In a statement on his X page, he argued that a successful presidency isn’t about longevity, citing leaders like Abraham Lincoln and Nelson Mandela who left lasting legacies despite short tenures.
Obi is a key figure in an opposition coalition using the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
While he has committed to a one-term presidency, it is still unclear if he will run on the ADC or LP ticket, as he remains an official member of the latter.
“Longevity in office is not a mark of success; rather, it is purposeful, accountable service – however brief – that defines true statesmanship. It is within this context that I reiterate my vow: I will serve only one term of four years if elected president. And that vow is sacrosanct,” he posted.
“Forty-eight months is enough for any leader who is focused and prepared to make a meaningful difference. I do not intend to stay a day longer. History shows that the longer many African leaders remain in power, the more likely they are to be corrupted by it,” he added.
