Obi vs. Soludo: Peter Obi Vows To Serve Only One Term, Sends Strong Message To Anambra Governor

Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his commitment to serve only a single term if elected President in 2027.

Obi’s earlier pledge to govern for just four years—provided he receives backing from an opposition coalition to replace President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—had sparked criticism in political circles.

While speaking at a rally in Anambra South on Saturday to support his re-election campaign, Governor Chukwuma Soludo dismissed the idea of a one-term presidency, describing it as irrational. The former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor argued that the Nigerian Constitution clearly permits a president to serve two terms.

“How can anyone in their right mind say such a thing? Do you think people are fools? Any politician who promises to serve just one term should be taken to a psychiatric hospital. That person must be mentally unstable,” Soludo said.

In a statement released on Sunday, Peter Obi stood by his vow, stating that his promise to serve for only four years, if elected, remains unchangeable.

He emphasized that trust in leadership has significantly eroded in Nigeria, making such commitments rare and often met with skepticism.

Obi wrote:

“One of America’s greatest Presidents, Abraham Lincoln, only served four years, yet his legacy remains a benchmark of principled leadership. John F. Kennedy didn’t even finish a full term, yet his vision continues to inspire.

“In Africa, Nelson Mandela, a global symbol of justice and reconciliation, chose to serve just one term as South Africa’s President despite widespread calls to stay longer. It was a conscious decision to show that leadership is about service, not personal gain.

“History has taught us that in many African nations, the longer leaders stay in power, the more susceptible they become to corruption. Leadership isn’t measured by duration but by purpose, accountability, and impact—however short the tenure.”