Peter Obi swears: I’ll serve only four years

DDM News

Former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate under the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has once again stirred the political landscape with a bold declaration ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Obi, in a strongly worded statement posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, vowed to serve only one term of four years if elected President of Nigeria.

The statement, rich in historical and philosophical references, placed him in the same ideological lineage as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela, three globally revered leaders who served with integrity during their time in office.

Obi emphasized that he does not believe longevity in office equates to good governance.

According to him, leadership should be about service, not tenure.

“History shows that the longer many African leaders remain in power, the more likely they are to be corrupted by it,” he wrote.

He argued that some of the world’s greatest leaders made their mark within short periods, and that purposeful leadership does not require an eternity to manifest.

Obi referred to Abraham Lincoln’s four years as President of the United States as an example of transformational leadership.

He also cited Nelson Mandela’s single-term presidency in South Africa, which he described as a “deliberate act of leadership” that rejected the temptation of power for its own sake.

“Longevity in office is not a mark of success; rather, it is purposeful, accountable service, however brief, that defines true statesmanship,” Obi declared.

The former governor said that his vow to serve only four years is “sacrosanct,” adding that he is not making the promise lightly.

He acknowledged the widespread cynicism among Nigerians regarding political promises, but insisted his track record should speak for him.

Obi recounted his achievements in Anambra State as evidence of his commitment to keeping his word.

“When I entered politics in Anambra State, I made clear and measurable promises to the people… and I fulfilled each of those promises without deviation,” he said.

Obi also dismissed criticism suggesting that his vow of a single term reflects instability or political weakness.

“If making such a promise qualifies me for psychiatric evaluation, then we may as well question the mental fitness of those who framed our Constitution,” he retorted.

The Nigerian Constitution allows for two terms of four years each, but Obi is positioning himself as a unique candidate committed to radical transparency, urgency, and impact.

This announcement is expected to draw sharp attention from both critics and supporters ahead of the 2027 elections.

Analysts suggest that Obi is trying to frame his potential presidency around accountability, urgency, and moral integrity, qualities often seen as lacking in Nigeria’s political class.

His one-term pledge could resonate with voters fatigued by entrenched leadership cycles and unfulfilled campaign promises.

It also comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with deep-seated economic, security, and institutional challenges that have weakened public trust in governance.

Obi’s statement reads, in part: “Forty-eight months is enough for any leader who is focused and prepared to make a meaningful difference.”

He concluded by reaffirming his belief that leadership with integrity is not a myth, and that Nigerians deserve governance built on trust, not deception.

As preparations for 2027 begin to take shape, observers will be watching closely to see how this vow shapes Obi’s political alliances, campaign strategy, and public perception.

For now, the message is clear: Peter Obi is promising transformation, not tenure.

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