The Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi has fired back at those questioning his promise to serve only one term if elected president, insisting his commitment stems from conviction, not desperation.
In a statement posted via his official X handle on Tuesday, August 5, the former Anambra governor said he remained baffled by the level of agitation surrounding his four-year pledge.
“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 wrote
Obi clarified that he is not motivated by ambition or power, but by a burning desire to see Nigeria work.
He stressed that if it takes just four years of honest leadership to reset the country, he is willing to make that sacrifice.
“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 declared.
Obi also pushed back against suggestions that his promise was a desperate political strategy, stating categorically, “I have never been desperate in the pursuit of power, or anything else, for that matter.”
According to him, desperation often comes with telltale signs like wild promises, personal attacks, and erratic policy positions—none of which, he said, have ever defined his political career.
“There are some traits associated with desperation… 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… or frequently changing positions or policies to suit immediate political needs,” he wrote.
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Obi maintained that his approach has always been rooted in principles, not noise.
He challenged critics and political opponents to examine his record and find any history of electoral malpractice or violence.
“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,” he stated.
He added that even his opponents were never subjected to blackmail or financial pressure under his watch.
“Ask those who have contested against me—none were ever denied their rights, framed, or falsely accused,” Obi said. “I believe in fair competition, not manufactured victories.”
Obi concluded by reiterating that four years is enough to set Nigeria on a new path, citing the wastefulness of current public spending as an example of what could be quickly reversed with responsible leadership.
“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,” he noted.
He promised to use every moment of his single term, if elected, to deliver justice, restore the rule of law, and ensure free and fair elections.
“Leadership, to me, is not about entitlement. It is about service,” he said. “If given the mandate, for just one term, I will dedicate every moment to building a Nigeria that works for all.”