One-Term Presidency: Peter Obi Claps Back at Soludo Over Tenure Mockery

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Peter Obi, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, has firmly responded to comments made by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludoo, who ridiculed his pledge to serve only a single four-year term if elected President in 2027.

Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo



Obi’s position on a one-term presidency first gained widespread attention in early July, following an appearance on a television programme. During the interview, he stated unequivocally that he would willingly accept a single term in office—particularly if it formed part of a national consensus or coalition agreement aimed at promoting unity and enabling a smooth rotation of power back to the North by 2031.



When asked by host Seun Okinbaloye whether his promise was absolute, Obi responded without hesitation:
“Absolutely. I mean it completely. You may not achieve 100 per cent results, but what Nigerians expect is 100 per cent effort and sacrifice.”



However, Governor Soludo dismissed the notion outright, calling it irrational and questioning the mental fitness of any politician who would make such a commitment.


Soludo said, “How can anyone with a functioning brain say they’ll serve only one term? Do they think they’re talking to fools?” Soludo asked rhetorically. “Any politician who says that should be sent to a psychiatric hospital. That person certainly has a mental problem.”

Only a Mentally Deranged Politician Will Say He Will Serve One Term – Soludo

I Only Need Four Years to Fix Nigeria – Peter Obi



In a detailed and pointed response posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Peter Obi defended both the principle and practicality of his one-term vow. He cited global icons who served briefly but made lasting impact.

Peter Obi



“One of the greatest American Presidents, Abraham Lincoln, served only four years, yet his legacy endures as a model of principled leadership. 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 as President of South Africa, despite immense public pressure to stay longer.”

Obi stressed that Mandela’s decision was a deliberate act of leadership and a bold assertion that political power should serve the people, not be hoarded for personal gain.

“History has shown that the longer many African leaders remain in power, the more likely they are to become corrupted by it. Longevity in office is not a mark of success. What defines true statesmanship is purposeful and accountable service—however brief.”

Referencing these precedents, Obi reaffirmed his pledge:
“It is within this context that I reiterate my vow: I will serve only one term of four years if elected President. And that vow is sacrosanct.”

Obi acknowledged the widespread scepticism among Nigerians, driven by years of broken promises and failed leadership.

“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. But even in this climate of cynicism, there are still a few whose actions have matched their words—whose integrity is built on verifiable precedent.”

Responding directly to the mocking tone of Soludo’s remarks, Obi noted:
“Recently, I became aware of two statements indirectly aimed at my vow. One said 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.”

“I understand the basis of their scepticism. 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.”

He emphasized that his political record in Anambra State is a testament to his integrity and ability to deliver on promises.

“In my political life, my word is my bond. When I entered politics in Anambra, I made clear, measurable promises to the people: improve education and healthcare, open up rural areas through road construction, and manage public funds with prudence. I fulfilled each of those promises without deviation. I did not swear by a shrine, nor have I been certified mentally unstable for keeping my word.”

Obi further explained that his promise is not just a campaign gimmick but a deeply held belief in responsible and time-bound governance.

“My vow to serve only one term of four years is a solemn commitment, rooted in my conviction that purposeful, transparent leadership does not require an eternity. 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, which clearly stipulates a four-year renewable tenure.”

He closed his statement with unwavering clarity:
“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.”

Obi also outlined his policy priorities for his proposed term, highlighting specific and achievable goals:

Sanitising the governance system to restore credibility and transparency.

Tackling insecurity through the efficient, accountable use of national resources.

Prioritising education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation as pillars of social reform.

Empowering small businesses as engines of inclusive economic growth.

Fighting corruption with unwavering resolve.

Transforming Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to a productive one, leveraging agriculture, technology, and manufacturing.


He concluded: “These are not utopian dreams. They are realistic, actionable goals that are achievable within four years. Forty-eight months is enough for any leader who is focused and prepared to make a meaningful difference. I have done it before. I intend to do it again—and I will not betray the trust of the Nigerian people.”

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