I believe that service should be impactful, not eternal– Peter Obi

Labour Party presidential candidate and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has reiterated his commitment to serve only one four-year term if elected President of Nigeria, drawing parallels with historical leaders who prioritized impact over longevity in office.

Obi cited American President Abraham Lincoln, who “transformed America in just four years,” and South Africa’s Nelson Mandela, who “voluntarily stepped down after one term,” as examples of leaders who understood that “true leadership isn’t measured by time in office, but by impact achieved.”

The former governor’s renewed pledge comes amid ongoing skepticism from critics who question the sincerity of his commitment.

Responding to detractors who suggested his vow requires “psychiatric evaluation” or wouldn’t be believed “even if sworn by a shrine,” Obi pointed to his track record as Anambra governor.

“I understand their cynicism, but they judge me by standards I’ve never embraced,” Obi stated. “When I promised to improve education and healthcare in Anambra State, I delivered. When I pledged to build rural roads and manage public funds prudently, I kept my word.”

Constitutional Framework Defense

Addressing questions about his mental fitness for making such a commitment, Obi referenced Nigeria’s Constitution, which establishes four-year renewable terms. “If promising to honor the basic constitutional framework requires psychiatric evaluation, then we must question the sanity of our founding fathers,” he argued.

The presidential hopeful outlined an ambitious agenda he believes can be accomplished within 48 months, including governance reform, security solutions, human development priorities, economic transformation, and national productivity enhancement.

“These aren’t utopian fantasies—they’re realistic, actionable goals designed for immediate implementation and measurable outcomes,” Obi emphasized.

Trust Deficit Challenge

Acknowledging that “trust has become Nigeria’s rarest commodity” due to “decades of broken promises,” Obi positioned his one-term pledge as a tool for rebuilding faith in Nigerian leadership.

“My commitment to one term isn’t just about constitutional compliance; it’s about rebuilding faith in Nigerian leadership,” he explained. “When leaders voluntarily limit their power, they demonstrate that service comes before self-interest.”

The former governor’s statement highlighted his intention to transform Nigeria “from a consuming nation into a productive powerhouse, anchored by agriculture, technology, and manufacturing instead of rent-seeking and waste.”

Historical Precedent

Obi’s reference to global leaders who served limited terms reflects a broader argument against prolonged rule in Africa. He noted that “history shows that the longer many African leaders remain in power, the more likely they are to be corrupted by it.”

The statement concluded with Obi’s trademark optimism: “A new Nigeria is possible—and it starts with leaders who honor their commitments.”

As Nigeria grapples with ongoing economic challenges, insecurity, and governance issues, Obi’s pledge represents a significant departure from traditional political practices where leaders often seek to extend their tenure beyond constitutional limits.

The 2023 presidential candidate continues to maintain significant support among younger Nigerians and urban professionals who view his business background and governance record as qualifications for national leadership.

Source: HallmarkNews | Continue to Full Story…