I’m ready for single-term presidency – Obi

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, says he is willing to accept a one-term presidency in the spirit of equity and zoning if such a condition is required in the event of a coalition agreement ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking on Sunday night during a live X Space conversation with his supporters, Obi affirmed that while he is actively involved in coalition talks with like-minded Nigerians, he is not engaged in any discussions on joint tickets, including with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

“I have not joined in any form of discussion on joint tickets, including with Atiku,” he said. “If there is any form of agreement that will restrict me to four years in office, I will comply with the agreement and be ready to leave office on the 28th of May, 2031—not the 29th, but the 28th.”

Obi said his focus is on rescuing Nigeria from its current trajectory, and he urged Nigerians to rally behind a shared vision of national transformation.

“I will bring stability to Nigeria within two years. The leaders of Nigeria should sit down in Nigeria and fix Nigeria,” he said.

On the prospect of serving a single term, Obi referenced the unwritten understanding of power rotation between the North and South, saying that no president should breach that convention.

“I believe in the rotation of government between North and South. I implemented it in Anambra as governor,” he said.

He added that he would prioritise cutting the cost of governance and fighting corruption “from day one,” directing public resources toward security, education, and poverty alleviation.

While some believe the proposal reflects a mature and pragmatic approach to coalition politics, others warn it could send troubling signals about political desperation or compromise on constitutional entitlements.