During Live X Space, Peter Obi Pledges One-Term Presidency, Commits to Power Shift to Northern Nigeria

Speaking during a live X Space discussion that drew a significant audience across Nigeria and beyond, Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, reiterated his commitment to serve only a single term if elected president. The virtual engagement, which took place Sunday night, offered the former Anambra State Governor another opportunity to directly connect with Nigerians and clarify his stance on the lingering question of power rotation between the North and South.

Obi, who has become known for his consistent engagement with citizens via digital platforms, used the interactive session to reaffirm his previous statement on leadership tenure. He stated emphatically that if there was an agreement to serve only one term and hand over to the North, he would honour it without hesitation. His words were clear and unequivocal: “If I have an agreement to do One Term and hand over to the North, I will keep to it. You can take it to the bank.”

This pledge, delivered in a moment marked by both passion and conviction, comes amid renewed debates on zoning and the principles of equity in Nigeria’s presidential power dynamics. The issue of North-South rotation has remained a key consideration in national political discourse, especially as the 2027 general elections begin to feature in early political conversations.

Obi’s message appeared to be aimed at dispelling doubts about his personal ambitions and reinforcing his image as a leader committed to justice, fairness, and national unity. His reassurance could be interpreted as a direct response to critics who have questioned whether his potential presidency might extend beyond one term, thereby disrupting the delicate regional balance.

Participants in the X Space asked Obi about his stance on zoning and whether he would be willing to step aside after one term. With calm and candour, he told listeners that trust and integrity are essential to leadership, and that any agreement entered into before the election must be kept without compromise.

“You don’t make promises to people and break them,” he said. “If we’re going to heal this country, we must begin by restoring trust in our institutions and leaders. That begins with keeping our word.”

Throughout the session, Obi underscored the importance of inclusivity and fairness in building a more united Nigeria. He said no region should feel excluded from governance, and that power must be seen to circulate fairly across the federation to foster a sense of belonging among all Nigerians.

Responding to questions about whether this commitment might weaken his capacity to implement long-term reforms, Obi explained that one term, when well used, could be enough to set a transformational agenda in motion. According to him, the emphasis should be on the quality of governance, not the length of time in office. He said many of the challenges facing the country could be tackled decisively within four years if the right policies and institutions are put in place from the start.

“We don’t need 20 years to change this country,” he remarked. “If you have a clear plan, if you’re not stealing public funds, and if you have the political will, you can achieve remarkable results in four years.”

The X Space served not only as a policy dialogue but also as a form of digital town hall, with Nigerians from various parts of the country expressing their concerns, hopes, and aspirations. Listeners engaged Obi on topics ranging from economic reforms to insecurity, education, healthcare, and national cohesion. His responses, often data-driven and rooted in pragmatic thinking, earned praise from several quarters.

Some analysts believe this renewed one-term pledge could be a strategic move to reassure northern political elites and voters who may be wary of perceived southern dominance. Given the regional sensitivities surrounding presidential succession, Obi’s statement may play a role in shaping future alliances and public perceptions.

Political observers also noted that his emphasis on a single term may set a precedent for a different style of leadership, one less obsessed with tenure elongation and more focused on results. It also introduces an interesting dynamic into the 2027 electoral space, especially as other prospective candidates begin to declare their intentions.

Obi, for his part, appeared to anticipate such doubts. He repeated several times during the conversation that his personal integrity and track record should give Nigerians the confidence to believe him. He reminded listeners of his time as governor, during which he declined to use a security vote and returned billions of naira in savings to the state treasury.

“For me, governance is not about self-interest. It’s a call to serve, and I’ve always demonstrated that,” he added.

This digital engagement was another example of how Obi has continued to leverage new media for political outreach, especially among younger demographics. His post-2023 popularity has not waned significantly, and his support base continues to grow, particularly among urban voters, students, professionals, and the diaspora community.

As conversations about 2027 intensify, Peter Obi’s declaration is likely to remain a topic of political analysis and public interest. Whether or not this pledge becomes a binding part of any formal agreement remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that he has once again set himself apart from the typical political script.

For many Nigerians who have grown cynical about political promises, Obi’s words might represent a refreshing deviation. Yet, as history has shown, only time will tell whether such vows are fulfilled. In the meantime, his message has been delivered, clearly and unambiguously: one term, and then a handover to the North. And according to him, you can take that to the bank.