Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has reiterated his unwavering commitment to serve only one four-year term if elected Nigeria’s president, asserting that the quality of leadership should be measured by its impact rather than the duration in office.
In a message shared on his X (formerly Twitter) platform on Sunday, Obi drew parallels between his pledge and the legacies of historical global leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela—figures who, he noted, left indelible marks despite their relatively short periods in power.
“One of the greatest American Presidents, Abraham Lincoln, served only four years, yet his legacy endures as a model of principled leadership.
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“Another iconic figure, John F. Kennedy, did not even complete a full term, yet his vision and ideals continue to inspire generations.
“In Africa, Nelson Mandela, revered globally as a symbol of justice and reconciliation, chose to serve only one term as President of South Africa, despite immense public pressure to stay longer.
“His decision was a deliberate act of leadership, a statement that power must serve the people, not the self. Indeed, history shows that the longer many African leaders remain in power, the more likely they are to be corrupted by it.
“Longevity in office is not a mark of success; rather, it is purposeful, accountable service – however brief – that defines true statesmanship.It 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 wrote.
He clarified that his one-term promise is not a campaign gimmick but a decision deeply rooted in personal values and his past record as Anambra State governor, where he said he governed with clarity and fulfilled his promises without fail.
Obi also addressed skeptics who have dismissed his promise as unrealistic or deceptive. He referenced critics who mocked his statement, one even recommending a psychiatric test and another doubting him “even if I swore by a shrine.”
“I understand the basis of their scepticism. They are judging me by their own standards — where political promises are made to be broken.“But they forget, or perhaps choose to ignore, that Peter Obi is not cut from that cloth,” Obi wrote.
He insisted that competent governance can deliver measurable results within Nigeria’s constitutional four-year term, stressing the importance of trust, integrity, and commitment to purpose in leadership.
“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,” he added.
Outlining his key focus areas, Obi said his administration would prioritize transparent governance, national security, education and healthcare reform, empowering small businesses, and transitioning Nigeria into a production-led economy driven by agriculture, technology, and manufacturing.
“These are not utopian dreams. They are realistic, actionable goals that are achievable within four years,” he said.
He concluded by restating that under no circumstance would he exceed one term, describing his position as a solemn covenant to deliver purposeful leadership and not to pursue power for its own sake.
