As the controversy surrounding the pledge by the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, that he will serve for one term of four years continues to rage, the aspirant has reiterated that 48 months is enough for any visionary leader to turn the fortunes of the country.
The former Anambra State governor, via his X handle on Tuesday, said that he is baffled by the reaction his decision to serve for only four years has generated.
He stressed that in four years, he will confront corruption head-on, redirect resources to priority areas, cut the trillions used to acquire new presidential jets and other unnecessary expenses, and channel it into education, healthcare and infrastructure.
“I still find it baffling that my decision to do a term of four years, if given the mandate to rule this country, is generating so much agitation.
“By this feeling, we are doubting the fact that a sincere leader can achieve much in 48 months,” Obi stated.
The leader of the ‘Obident movement’ said that what is propelling his presidential ambition is not personal ambition but the urgent need to destroy the criminal cabals that held the country hostage.
“I have never been desperate in the pursuit of power, or anything else, for that matter.
“There are some traits associated with desperation, which in no way are in any of my political behaviours in the past and now, like engaging in overly aggressive rhetoric or actions to prove a point or gain attention; becoming overly defensive or reactive to criticism, often to the point of appearing paranoid.
“Making unrealistic or unfulfillable promises to win support or approval, resorting to personal attacks or character assassination to discredit opponents or frequently changing positions or policies to suit immediate political needs.
“What drives me is not personal ambition, but a deep, commitment to see Nigeria work. And if the sacrifice required of me is four years of sincere, accountable leadership, so be it,” he said.
He said that political desperation is linked with thuggery and other electoral malpractices which has no place in his politics as he believes in fair competition.
“Throughout my political journey, I have never been involved in thuggery, the snatching of ballot boxes, or any form of electoral malpractice.
“I challenge anyone: conduct your investigations. You will find no stains of rigging or violence associated with my name. I have always chosen the path of peace, principle, and civility.
“Ask those who have contested against me—none were ever denied their rights, framed, or falsely accused.
“None was asked to place their advert materials or break the bank to do so. I believe in fair competition, not manufactured victories.
“In four years we can confront corruption head-on, redirecting resources to priority areas.
“For instance, the trillions used to acquire new presidential jets and other unnecessary expenses at this time could have been channelled into education, healthcare, or infrastructure.
“Within the same period, we ensure that the rule is sacrosanct and the rule of law is strictly followed.
“Within the same period, we can conduct free, fair and credible elections
“Leadership, to me, is not about entitlement. It is about service. If given the mandate, for just one term, I will dedicate every moment to building a Nigeria that works for all,” he stressed.
Critics have argued that such a pledge undermines long-term planning and stability, suggesting it may hinder meaningful reforms that typically require more than four years to implement.
They equally view it as a populist tactic aimed at gaining quick political favor without genuine commitment.
They question its sincerity, citing Nigeria’s history of politicians making similar promises only to renege once in power.
Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga who joined the criticism fray accused Obi of turning history upside down with his one term proposal.
“Peter Obi, the aspiring presidential candidate of the fledgling opposition party, must have flunked history in school.
“In justifying his so-called ‘sacrosanct’ pledge to serve only one term of four years, he cited Abraham Lincoln, JFK, and Nelson Mandela as leaders he wanted to emulate.
“A simple fact check by a politician who always challenges his gullible and unthinking mob to verify his statements would have revealed that he quoted the wrong examples.
“Mandela’s example might be more appropriately recommended to Obi’s rival for the opposition ticket, who will turn 81 by 2027,” Bayo said.
