Peter Obi’s proposal to serve a single five-year presidential term if elected in 2027 has divided political leaders in the South-East, with some describing it as a bold reform agenda while others dismiss it as political posturing.
The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate had stirred debate in August when he told Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed that Nigeria should abolish the two-term system, arguing that “a president spends one year governing and the rest chasing re-election.” Obi suggested a model similar to South Korea, where presidents serve only one term.
While some analysts see the idea as a pragmatic way to compel leaders to focus on governance rather than politics, critics question its feasibility in a country as fractured as Nigeria.
Kenneth Udeze, National Chairman of the Action Alliance, said Obi’s proposal was “a political tool to woo Nigerians desperate for change.” He warned that Nigerians should not “swallow it hook, line and sinker,” arguing that insecurity, corruption and political distractions make four or five years insufficient to turn the country around.
“Even in America, Donald Trump couldn’t fix everything in one term,” Udeze said, adding that constitutional amendments would be required before such a policy could take effect.
But Chyma Anthony, the 2023 APGA senatorial candidate for Imo East, welcomed the idea. “Four years is enough to make significant changes. Nigerians don’t care where the president comes from; they want results,” he told reporters, noting Obi’s wide appeal and ability to mobilise support.
Anthony insisted that Obi has the followership to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027. “He won Lagos in 2023. Nothing is impossible. Nigerians are suffering daily from insecurity, fake food and economic collapse. The hunger for solutions is stronger than regional politics,” he said.
The debate underscores broader questions about Nigeria’s governance structure as the country approaches 2027, with voters weighing whether structural reforms or continuity offer the best hope for progress.
