The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his commitment to serving only a single four-year term if elected President in the 2027 general election, insisting he has no intention of remaining in office beyond that period.
Obi made the declaration during an interview on Sunday Politics with Seun Okinbaloye, where he dismissed suggestions that his promise of a single-term presidency was merely a political strategy to secure votes ahead of the election.
The former Anambra State governor, who contested the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the Labour Party (LP), said his position was unequivocal and stemmed from a mutual understanding reached with his running mate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
His remarks followed comments by Kwankwaso, who recently disclosed that both leaders had agreed that Obi would serve only one term if they emerged victorious in the 2027 presidential election.
Responding to the issue, Obi confirmed that such an understanding indeed exists, describing it as an agreement that must be respected by all parties involved.
According to him, honouring commitments remains an essential aspect of leadership and integrity.
“It was an agreement,” Obi said during the interview.
He stressed that, as responsible leaders, they were obligated to uphold the understanding reached before presenting themselves to Nigerians.
“As gentlemen, we must respect the agreement,” he stated.
Obi maintained that four years would be sufficient to lay a solid foundation for Nigeria’s transformation, arguing that effective governance is not necessarily determined by the length of time spent in office but by the quality of leadership and commitment to national development.
He expressed confidence that within a single term, his administration would be able to initiate reforms capable of placing the country on a sustainable path of economic growth, institutional development and national progress.
“I don’t need more than four years to show the path Nigeria will take. It’s a simple thing,” he said.
The former governor reiterated that Nigerians should expect no extension beyond the agreed tenure if entrusted with the nation’s leadership.
“And I say it again: I will serve for four years—full stop. If you want me, it’s four years, full stop—not a day more,” Obi declared.
His latest comments are expected to fuel further political discussions ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly as political parties continue consultations and coalition talks aimed at strengthening their chances at the polls.
Obi has consistently maintained that his focus is on rebuilding Nigeria through prudent economic management, institutional reforms and accountable leadership, rather than remaining in office for an extended period.
The NDC flagbearer has repeatedly argued that Nigeria’s challenges require decisive leadership and effective implementation of policies, insisting that measurable progress can be achieved within a single four-year tenure.
His renewed commitment to a one-term presidency is likely to remain a major talking point in the country’s evolving political landscape as preparations for the 2027 general election gather momentum.
