Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reiterated his promise to serve only one term of four years if elected President, describing the commitment as “sacrosanct” and rooted in a vision of purposeful and accountable leadership.
In a statement on his X page, Obi drew historical parallels with respected global figures like Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela to underscore that true leadership is not measured by longevity but by impact.
“One of the greatest American Presidents, Abraham Lincoln, served only four years, yet his legacy endures as a model of principled leadership,” Obi stated. “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… His decision was a deliberate act of leadership, a statement that power must serve the people, not the self.”
Obi noted that Africa’s political history shows that prolonged stay in power often leads to corruption. “Longevity in office is not a mark of success; rather, it is purposeful, accountable service, however brief, that defines true statesmanship.”
Amid growing public scepticism, Obi acknowledged the distrust many Nigerians harbour toward politicians and their promises. “I am fully aware that the decay in our society has made trust one of the scarcest and most sceptically viewed commodities. Many Nigerians, understandably, no longer take politicians at their word,” he said.
Referencing recent jabs made at his one-term promise, Obi said: “One person remarked that even if I swore by a shrine, I still wouldn’t be believed. Another suggested that anyone talking about doing only one term should undergo psychiatric evaluation.”
But he dismissed the criticism, saying: “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. I have a verifiable track record that speaks louder than speculation.”
Obi highlighted his tenure as governor of Anambra State as proof of his credibility. “In my political life, my word is my bond… I did not swear by a shrine, nor have I been certified mentally unstable as a result of honouring my word.”
Reasserting his position, he said: “I maintain without equivocation: if elected, I will not spend a day longer than four years in office. In fact, I believe that service should be impactful, not eternal.”
According to Obi, his single term would be used to pursue urgent national reforms including tackling insecurity, sanitising the governance system, investing in education and healthcare, supporting small businesses, and combating corruption.
“Forty-eight months is enough for any leader who is focused and prepared to make a meaningful difference,” he said. “In that time, I intend not merely to make an impression, but to deliver on concrete promises.”
He stressed the need to rebuild public trust and transform Nigeria’s economy. “Above all, I will dedicate myself to transforming Nigeria from a consuming nation into a productive one, where agriculture, technology, and manufacturing replace rent-seeking and waste as our national anchors,” he said.
“These are not utopian dreams. They are realistic, actionable goals that are achievable within four years.”
Concluding, Obi said “We must rebuild trust in our country. I have dedicated my public life to demonstrating that leadership with integrity is not a myth. I have done it before, and I do not intend to betray that trust under any circumstances. A new Nigeria is POssible.”
Chioma Kalu
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