Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has called for Nigeria to adopt a single, five-year term for the presidency, doing away with the current two-term system.
Speaking on Friday during a visit to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Obi said that limiting the presidency to one term would help leaders focus on governing rather than campaigning for re-election.
“I have said it before, and I say it again: the presidency should be limited to one straight five-year term. This will allow presidents to concentrate fully on their duties,” Obi said.
He added that under the present system, presidents often spend significant time focused on winning a second term instead of working on their responsibilities. “We need to stop this cycle, get the job done, and then step aside,” he stressed.
Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential election, Obi promised that if elected, he would serve only one term and would not remain in office beyond four years.
Obi also emphasized strengthening political parties so they are more powerful than individual officeholders. “The party should be bigger than presidents and governors to maintain order,” he said.
In response, Governor Bala Mohammed urged Obi to return to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), saying, “We want you back in the PDP because that is where you belong. There are plans and strategies waiting for you.”
Mohammed called on opposition parties to set aside personal interests and work together for Nigeria’s progress.