Presidential hopeful and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, has stood by his vow to serve only a single four-year term if elected president in 2027, rejecting criticisms that describe his promise as desperate, unrealistic, or politically naive.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Obi said his one-term declaration was born out of a genuine desire to rebuild Nigeria—not personal ambition or a hunger for power.
“I still find it baffling that my decision to do a term of four years, if given the mandate to rule this country, is generating so much agitation,” Obi wrote.
“By this feeling, we are doubting the fact that a sincere leader can achieve much in 48 months.”
Responding to suggestions that the pledge reflected desperation, Obi fired back, insisting he does not possess any of the typical traits associated with politicians who chase power recklessly.
“I have never been desperate in the pursuit of power, or anything else, for that matter,” he said.
“There are some traits associated with desperation which in no way are in any of my political behaviours—like overly aggressive rhetoric, becoming overly defensive to criticism, making unfulfillable promises, launching personal attacks, or flip-flopping on policy to suit political needs.”
Obi stated that his political conduct has always reflected principles over power and civility over conflict. He dismissed any accusations of political malpractice.
“Throughout my political journey, I have never been involved in thuggery, the snatching of ballot boxes, or any form of electoral malpractice. I challenge anyone: conduct your investigations. You will find no stains of rigging or violence associated with my name,” he said.
The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate stressed that a lot could be achieved in just four years if leadership is honest and focused. He outlined several reforms his administration would pursue if elected, including fighting corruption and restoring discipline in government spending.
“In four years we can confront corruption head-on, redirecting resources to priority areas. For instance, the trillions used to acquire new presidential jets and other unnecessary expenses at this time could have been channelled into education, healthcare, or infrastructure,” he wrote.
Obi also promised to strengthen the rule of law and restore electoral integrity.
“Within the same period, we can ensure that the rule of law is sacrosanct and strictly followed. We can conduct free, fair, and credible elections.”
Reaffirming his commitment to good governance, Obi concluded that public office should be a platform for impact—not self-serving ambition.
“Leadership, to me, is not about entitlement or personal gain but about delivering meaningful impact,” he wrote.
As the 2027 general elections draw closer, Obi’s one-term promise continues to ignite widespread public discussion, winning applause from his core supporters while attracting skepticism from political observers.
His post on X (formerly Twitter):
“If Service is the motive Turning the Tide in Four Years is Possible I still find it baffling that my decision to do a term of four years, if given the mandate to rule this country, is generating so much agitation. By this feeling, we are doubting the fact that a sincere leader can achieve much in 48 months. I have never been desperate in the pursuit of power, or anything else, for that matter. There are some traits associated with desperation, which in no way are in any of my political behaviours in the past and now, like engaging in overly aggressive rhetoric or actions to prove a point or gain attention; becoming overly defensive or reactive to criticism, often to the point of appearing paranoid. Making unrealistic or unfulfillable promises to win support or approval, resorting to personal attacks or character assassination to discredit opponents or frequently changing positions or policies to suit immediate political needs. What drives me is not personal ambition, but a deep, commitment to see Nigeria work. And if the sacrifice required of me is four years of sincere, accountable leadership, so be it. Throughout my political journey, I have never been involved in thuggery, the snatching of ballot boxes, or any form of electoral malpractice. I challenge anyone: conduct your investigations. You will find no stains of rigging or violence associated with my name. I have always chosen the path of peace, principle, and civility. Ask those who have contested against me—none were ever denied their rights, framed, or falsely accused. None was asked to place their advert materials or break the bank to do so. I believe in fair competition, not manufactured victories. In four years we can confront corruption head-on, redirecting resources to priority areas. For instance, the trillions used to acquire new presidential jets and other unnecessary expenses at this time could have been channelled into education, healthcare, or infrastructure. Within the same period, we ensure that the rule is sacrosanct and the rule of law is strictly followed. Within the same period, we can conduct free, fair and credible elections Leadership, to me, is not about entitlement. It is about service. If given the mandate, for just one term, I will dedicate every moment to building a Nigeria that works for all. -PO,” he wrote.
