Peter Obi’s renewed vow to serve only one term if elected president in 2027 has ignited fierce political controversy, drawing sharp criticism from the All Progressives Congress (APC), scepticism from within his Labour Party (LP), and outright dismissal from Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, had on Sunday restated that his promise to serve just one term, if elected, remains “sacrosanct,” saying impactful leadership is not defined by the number of years spent in office.
The statement, however, drew flak from APC spokespersons who dismissed it as political theatre aimed at swaying voters. The LP itself appeared divided: while the Julius Abure-led leadership brushed it off as a campaign gimmick, the rival faction led by Senator Nenadi Usman endorsed the pledge, citing Obi’s record of principled leadership.
Governor Soludo was even more scathing. Speaking at a political rally in Anambra South, he questioned the mental soundness of any politician who makes such a promise.
“Any politician who says that must be sent to a psychiatric home because the person must have some mental problem,” Soludo said. “How can anybody with a functioning brain say that? Do you think you’re speaking to fools?”
He argued that since the Nigerian Constitution provides for a renewable four-year tenure, there is no reason any serious politician would voluntarily limit themselves to a single term.
Responding via his X account on Sunday, Obi stood his ground, invoking the legacies of historic leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela to support his position.
“One of the greatest American presidents, Abraham Lincoln, served only four years, yet his legacy endures,” Obi wrote. “Another iconic figure, John F. Kennedy, did not complete a full term, yet his vision continues to inspire. Nelson Mandela, revered as a symbol of justice, chose to serve only one term in South Africa despite immense pressure to continue.”
Obi argued that “longevity in office is not a mark of success,” and reiterated his belief that “purposeful, accountable service — however brief — defines true statesmanship.”
He acknowledged the scepticism trailing his vow but insisted that his commitment is genuine.
“Recently, I became aware of two indirect attacks on my pledge. One said even if I swore by a shrine, I wouldn’t be believed. Another said I should undergo psychiatric evaluation. These reactions reflect the cynicism bred by years of broken promises in our politics. But my vow is not for applause — it is a moral commitment I intend to keep.”
The Nenadi Usman-led LP faction issued a statement of support, praising Obi’s consistency and principle.
“As a political party, we do not doubt his integrity,” the statement read. “We are confident that, if entrusted with the presidency, Mr Obi would honour his word and serve only one term.”
However, the APC remained unconvinced. Its Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, described Obi’s position as an act of desperation.
“He is simply playing to the gallery,” Ibrahim said. “What’s the guarantee he will stick to that promise when he knows the Constitution allows for two terms? These are just antics to woo voters or manipulate coalition talks. It shows how desperate he is for power.”
He added, “Obi has nothing new to offer. The APC is focused on delivering democratic dividends, and our reforms are beginning to yield results. The one-term talk is a mere distraction.”
Obi’s one-term declaration has now become a flashpoint in the early days of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential contest, with critics questioning its feasibility and sincerity — and supporters hailing it as a bold moral stance in a system plagued by broken promises.
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