Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has reaffirmed his commitment to serving only one term if elected president, stating that he is not like typical Nigerian politicians who break promises. In a statement released on Sunday, Obi addressed doubts raised over his vow, stressing that he has always led with integrity and fulfilled his pledges throughout his political career.
He referenced figures like Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela—leaders who made a lasting impact within short terms—to emphasize that meaningful governance does not require extended tenure in office.
“To me, leadership should be impactful, not eternal. If elected, I will not spend a day beyond four years,” Obi said. He maintained that Nigerians have lost faith in political promises because most leaders use them as tools for manipulation. However, he insisted he is different: “They judge me by their own broken standards. But my word is my bond.”
Obi further explained that during his tenure as Anambra State Governor, he deliberately avoided public ceremonies and never named projects after himself, which is why many underestimated his achievements. “I refused to commission projects or seek recognition. I believed those were done with public money, so they weren’t mine to claim,” he noted.
He addressed those who ridiculed his one-term vow, saying their skepticism says more about the country’s political rot than about his intentions. “Some say I need psychiatric evaluation. Well, then question the Constitution too—it says four years, renewable. I’m choosing not to renew,” he argued.
Obi also listed clear goals he plans to achieve within four years if elected: fighting corruption, strengthening security, improving healthcare and education, and turning Nigeria from a consumption-focused to a production-driven economy.
“These are not utopian dreams,” he added. “They are realistic, actionable goals. A new Nigeria is POssible.”