Presidency slams Obi over one-term presidential ambition

The Presidency has berated the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, over his declaration to serve a one-term of four years if elected Nigeria’s president.

Obi had, in a post on X on Sunday, August 3, 2025, said a one-term of four years is enough for him to accomplish his ambition of a new Nigeria.

The former governor of Anambra State wrote: “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.

“His decision was a deliberate act of leadership, a statement that power must serve the people, not the self.

“Indeed, history shows that the longer many African leaders remain in power, the more likely they are to be corrupted by it.

“It is purposeful, accountable service – however brief – that defines true statesmanship.

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“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.”

Reacting on X, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said Obi failed to transform Anambra State after eight years, adding that is no guarantee that the former governor will do anything significant under four years as president.

Onanuga, who described Obi as a “liar”, stated: “You’re neither a Mandela nor a Lincoln or a Kennedy. You sound as if you have never held an elected office before. You sought re-election as Anambra Governor in 2010, and narrowly won courtesy of a divided opposition. Why didn’t you walk away after only one term in office?

“Meanwhile, after serving two terms, did Anambra look like a state that has been transformed? If you couldn’t transform a small Anambra after 8 years, is there a guarantee that you’ll do anything significant under 4 years as President of a complex and complicated Nigeria?

“You talk about keeping your promises or your vow being your bond, but you and I know that’s not true. You have broken previous promises and usually lie with reckless abandon, sometimes needlessly.

“For example, you said you won’t leave APGA but you left (the reason for your exit is immaterial because if we’re to make allowance for excuses, you’ll definitely have an excuse to break your one-term vow). You talk about trust, but how do you expect people to trust someone who can’t keep a simple promise not to leave a political party?”

The Star