Governor Soludo Declares One-Term Promise as Sign of Mental Instability, Slams 'Peter Obi' For Making Such Vows [VIDEO]

 

Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has sparked political controversy after bluntly declaring that any politician promising to serve only one term in office should undergo psychiatric evaluation. The Anambra State governor made this sharp remark during a rally in Anambra South organized to support his second-term ambition.

The governor, addressing a packed audience of party faithful, traditional leaders, and political stakeholders, ridiculed what he described as an irrational political gimmick. Without calling names directly, it was evident he was referring to Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, who had repeatedly pledged to serve a single four-year term if elected president.

Speaking with confidence and a tone of dismissal, Soludo asked the crowd, “Where in the world has it ever worked? You say you’ll serve just one term? That’s not politics, that’s madness. Such a person needs psychiatric examination.”

He went on to explain that the Nigerian Constitution is clear on the issue: it allows elected presidents to serve two terms of four years each, not one. According to Soludo, the one-term promise is not only legally unnecessary but politically unserious. He argued that anyone coming into leadership with a plan to bow out after four years is either deceiving the people or severely underestimating the challenges of governance.

The governor, a former Central Bank of Nigeria chief and seasoned economist, stated that four years is hardly enough time to implement and see through meaningful development plans, particularly in a country facing complex structural and economic issues.

“Real reforms don’t happen overnight. They take time, continuity, and focus. If you are serious about fixing a country like Nigeria, you don’t go around offering four-year miracles. It’s either you don’t know what you’re talking about, or you’re deliberately fooling the people,” he said, drawing loud applause from the crowd.

Soludo’s remarks have drawn strong reactions across the political landscape. Supporters saw it as a bold and honest critique of shallow populism. Critics, particularly allies of Peter Obi, accused him of being disrespectful and insensitive. Nevertheless, the governor remained unapologetic, insisting that he would always speak the truth, no matter whose interest it affects.

At the rally, Soludo reminded his audience of the accomplishments under his leadership, from road infrastructure to improved security and digital education reforms. He used these examples to show how genuine development requires time, planning, and a second term to consolidate progress.

“This state is not where it was when I took over, and it’s not yet where I want it to be. But we are moving forward. That’s because we understand governance is not trial-and-error. You need time to think, implement, correct mistakes, and build,” he explained.

Political analysts have noted that Soludo’s jab at the one-term idea is part of a larger ideological divide within the Southeast political space. While Peter Obi’s promise had won the hearts of many as a symbol of selfless leadership, Soludo’s argument is grounded in practical governance realities. The tension between idealism and pragmatism continues to shape the political discourse in the region.

Though Soludo did not mention Obi’s name, his message was unmistakable. Both men have a long and complex history. As two former governors of Anambra State, they have clashed repeatedly over governance models, economic policy, and now, presidential ambition.

Observers believe Soludo’s comment may also be a strategic move to position himself for greater national relevance. By challenging popular but, in his view, unworkable political promises, he presents himself as the rational technocrat in a field filled with populist rhetoric.

Whether the remark will hurt or boost his political standing remains to be seen. What is certain is that the statement has ignited debate about the value of long-term planning in leadership versus the appeal of short-term promises.

As Soludo’s second-term campaign gains momentum, the political heat in Anambra and beyond is likely to rise. With every speech, he signals that he is not just playing local politics – he is thinking about the national conversation.