Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has formally proposed serving only a single four-year term if elected in 2027, according to Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide.
Tanko revealed the development during a ceremony in Gombe, where Obi was conferred with the traditional titles Sarki Maskan (War Hero) and Dan Maje Babba Pantami by the District Head of Pantami, Mai Martaba Abdullahi.
Obi also received a letter of commendation from the local leadership for his contributions to the community.
Speaking to PUNCH Online, Tanko confirmed that the one-term proposal had been submitted to a coalition of opposition leaders including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Senate President David Mark — for consideration.
“We have presented it to the coalition. It’s now up to them to decide. But we believe it’s a credible and achievable plan. Peter Obi represents integrity, and that’s what Nigeria needs now,” Tanko said.
Tanko explained that although Nigeria’s Constitution permits a two-term presidency, Obi is committed to a single term to swiftly implement his policy vision.
“He believes four years is enough to deliver on his vision. It shows how focused and prepared he is,” Tanko added.
He also noted that stabilizing electricity alone could transform Nigeria’s economy and help position the country as a global exporter once more.
“Obi wants to make Nigeria an exporting country again. He says our planes will no longer leave airports empty.”
Tanko addressed Obi’s decision to accept the Pantami chieftaincy titles the first traditional honours he has accepted after turning down several others.
“Obi is not a title-chaser. But this was different a northern community honouring an Igbo man. It shows his rising national acceptance, especially in the North, where he wasn’t widely supported in 2023.”
Tanko attributed Obi’s growing appeal in the region to his humanitarian work, citing the funding of boreholes, visits to Almajiri schools, and support for youth and sanitation initiatives in underserved areas.
“In Pantami, people now say, ‘Get me water from Peter Obi’s borehole.’ That says a lot. He’s also supported youth entrepreneurship and improved school sanitation. These acts have earned him grassroots respect.”
Tanko concluded that Obi’s one-term pledge and growing acceptance in the North may signal a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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