Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for a major change to Nigeria’s political system by proposing a single five-year term for the office of the President.
Obi made this known during a visit to Governor Bala Mohammed in Bauchi State on Friday, where he emphasized the need to stop the current two-term structure for presidents in Nigeria.
He argued that allowing presidents to seek a second term often leads to distractions, with leaders spending more time preparing for re-election instead of focusing on governance.
“I’ve said it before, and I want to repeat it here — if I have the opportunity, we should end the idea of a second term for the President,” Obi stated.
“It should be a single five-year term so that leaders come in, focus, and do the work required of them.”
He pointed to South Korea as an example of a country where a single-term presidency works well, allowing leaders to concentrate on development without political pressure for re-election.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Obi also declared that if elected, he would serve only one term, pledging not to seek a second tenure.
“I’m committed to serving for just one term. I believe that’s enough to make meaningful impact if the right systems are in place,” he said.
Obi further stressed the need to build strong political institutions that are more powerful than individual politicians. He said that political parties should operate independently, without interference from presidents or governors.
“I want political parties to be bigger than the President and Governors. That way, we can ensure discipline and order,” Obi added.
Peter Obi’s comments have sparked fresh debate on political reforms and leadership in Nigeria, especially among youths and civil society groups who have been calling for better governance structures.