Peter Obi proposes single 5-year presidential term

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has called for Nigeria to adopt a single five-year term for the presidency, eliminating the current two-term system.

During a courtesy visit to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed on Friday, Obi argued that a single, uninterrupted term would ensure presidents focus fully on governance without the distraction of re-election campaigns.

“I have said it before, and I say it again here in this government house: we should end the second term for presidents. It should be a straight five years, so those in office can focus on the job they were elected to do,” Obi said.

He explained that under the current system, presidents often spend the first year governing and the remaining years focused on securing a second term. “We must stop this cycle, face the real work, and let others take over when the time is up,” he added.

Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential election, Obi promised to serve only one term and pledged not to stay in office beyond four years if elected.

He also emphasized the importance of strengthening political parties, stating, “The party should be bigger than any president or governor to ensure orderliness in governance.”

In response, Governor Bala Mohammed urged Obi to return to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), saying, “We want you back in the PDP because that is where you belong. There are plans and strategies for you here.”

Mohammed also called for unity among opposition parties, stressing that politics should be free from ego and personal interests, with all parties working together for the good of Nigerians.