Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has firmly responded to recent remarks by Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo, who questioned the mental fitness of any politician pledging to serve only a single term in office.

 

Speaking at a political rally in Anambra on Saturday, August 2, Soludo mocked such promises, saying, “Any politician who says they will do only one term should be sent to a psychiatric home… You think you’re talking to fools?”

 

The statement was widely interpreted as a swipe at Obi, who had earlier pledged to serve only four years as president if elected, particularly under any power-sharing or coalition arrangement that would see power return to the North in 2031.

 

In a detailed response posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi stood by his vow, describing it as “sacrosanct” and a symbol of principled leadership.

 

“If making such a promise qualifies me for psychiatric evaluation, then we may as well question the mental fitness of those who framed our Constitution, which clearly stipulates a four-year renewable tenure,” Obi wrote.

 

 

 

Referencing global examples, Obi cited Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela, highlighting that impactful leadership is not defined by longevity in office, but by purposeful and accountable service.

 

“Mandela chose to serve one term despite overwhelming support to remain in power. His decision was an act of leadership, not weakness,” Obi said, adding that long tenures often lead to corruption in Africa.

 

 

 

Addressing the scepticism toward his promise, Obi said it stems from a political culture where leaders often break their word. But, he maintained, “Peter Obi is not cut from that cloth.”

 

“In my political life, my word is my bond… I fulfilled my promises in Anambra without deviation. I did not swear by a shrine, nor have I been certified mentally unstable for keeping my word,” he stated.

 

 

 

He reiterated his vision for Nigeria, promising within four years to:

 

Sanitise governance

 

Tackle insecurity with accountability

 

Prioritise education, healthcare, and poverty reduction

 

Support small businesses as economic drivers

 

Fight corruption with unwavering commitment

 

 

Obi also pledged to transform Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to one led by agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.

 

“Forty-eight months is enough for any leader who is focused and prepared. These are not utopian dreams. They are achievable,” he concluded, signing off with his signature phrase:

“A new Nigeria is POssible. – PO”