Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has formally proposed to serve only a single four-year term if elected president in 2027.
This was revealed on Tuesday by Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide.
Tanko made the disclosure during a chieftaincy ceremony in Gombe, where Obi was conferred with the traditional title ‘Sarki Maskan’ (War Hero) by the Pantami community.
Obi also received a letter of commendation and was bestowed with the honorary title ‘Dan Maje Babba Pantanmi’ by the District Head of Pantami Palace, Mai Martaba Abdullahi.
Speaking with The PUNCH at the event, Tanko confirmed that Obi’s one-term presidency proposal has been formally presented to a coalition of opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Senate President David Mark.
“We’ve presented the proposal to the coalition. It’s now up to them to decide. But we believe it’s a workable plan. Peter Obi is a man of integrity, and that’s the kind of leadership Nigeria needs,” Tanko stated.
He emphasized that Obi is confident in his ability to make a meaningful impact within four years.
“Although the constitution allows for two terms, Obi is voluntarily committing to just one. He believes four years is sufficient to set the economy on the right track,” he added.
Tanko also outlined key aspects of Obi’s plan, including improving electricity supply, boosting exports, and ensuring Nigerian planes no longer fly out empty from the country’s airports.
Tanko explained that Obi’s acceptance of the traditional title from the Pantami community marks a notable shift. Despite previously declining similar honors, Obi accepted this one due to its significance.
“Obi doesn’t chase titles. But this one is different it’s a gesture from a northern community honoring an Igbo man. It signals growing national acceptance, particularly in regions where he struggled during the 2023 elections,” Tanko noted.
He highlighted Obi’s ongoing humanitarian work in underserved northern areas such as installing boreholes, funding youth entrepreneurship, and supporting Almajiri education programs.
“Pantami now has clean water that residents call ‘Peter Obi’s borehole.’ He’s also built school toilets and supported small business initiatives. These efforts are changing public perception,” he said.
Tanko concluded that the recognition from Pantami is more than symbolic it represents Obi’s efforts to bridge ethnic and regional divides.
“This honor reflects Obi’s commitment to building national unity. It may signal a significant shift in the political landscape as the 2027 elections approach,” he said.
Advertisement
