Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party (LP) 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi has insisted he has never engaged in electoral malpractice, thuggery, or violence throughout his political career.
Speaking on Tuesday, Obi addressed criticisms surrounding his vow to serve only a single four-year term if elected president in 2027. He described himself as a leader driven by service, not personal ambition, and challenged anyone to provide evidence linking him to election rigging or political violence.
“Throughout my political journey, I have never been involved in thuggery, ballot box snatching, or any form of electoral malpractice,” Obi said. “I believe in fair competition, not manufactured victories.”
Reactions to Single-Term Promise
Obi’s one-term pledge has sparked heated debate, with human rights lawyer Femi Falana dismissing the proposal as insufficient without a detailed vision for governance. Falana urged Nigerians to focus on concrete policy plans rather than the length of tenure.
Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo went further, questioning the logic behind such a promise and suggesting it was politically unrealistic.
Despite the pushback, Obi said he found it surprising that a commitment to serve for only four years was generating so much controversy. He stressed that his proposed tenure would be focused on fighting corruption, cutting wasteful government spending, and channeling resources into education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
“If the sacrifice required of me is four years of sincere, accountable leadership, so be it,” Obi stated.
The former governor highlighted his political history as one free of desperation, personal attacks, or unrealistic promises.
“Ask those who have contested against me none were denied their rights or framed. I have never been desperate in pursuit of power. Leadership is not about entitlement; it is about service,” he said.
Obi promised that within his four-year tenure, he would prioritize free and credible elections, strengthen the rule of law, and ensure accountability at all levels of government.
PDP Chieftain Endorses Obi’s Credibility
Meanwhile, Chief Dan Ulasi, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Anambra State chairman of the party, described Obi as a “viable product” for the 2027 presidential race.
Speaking on Arise TV, Ulasi said any party that fields Obi would enjoy a significant advantage, citing his record of integrity and honesty as governor of Anambra State.
“Peter Obi is one governor nobody has ever accused of corruption. Every reference to him is positive, and this country requires someone like him to give hope,” Ulasi said.
Ulasi supported Obi’s one-term promise, describing him as an honest leader who could achieve major reforms in four years if elected.
