‘What drives me is not personal ambition’ — Obi responds to critics over one-term presidency pledge

Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, has reaffirmed his commitment to accountable, short-term leadership, saying he is driven not by personal ambition but by the desire to see Nigeria work.

He said this amid mounting reactions to his vow to serve only one term if elected president in 2027.

Obi made the statement on Monday via his verified X page, where he clarified the motive behind his one-term pledge.

Titled “If Service is the Motive, Turning the Tide in Four Years is Possible,” the post challenged the public scepticism trailing his pledge, asserting that a committed and principled leader can indeed make a significant difference within a four-year period.

“I still find it baffling that my decision to do a term of four years, if given the mandate to rule this country, is generating so much agitation. By this feeling, we are doubting the fact that a sincere leader can achieve much in 48 months, Obi said.

“I have never been desperate in the pursuit of power, or anything else, for that matter.”

He noted that engaging in overly aggressive rhetoric or actions to prove a point or gain attention, and becoming overly defensive or reactive to criticism, often to the point of appearing paranoid, are traits associated with desperation.

However, he emphasised that none of these behaviours are characteristic of his political actions in the past or present.

“What drives me is not personal ambition, but a deep commitment to see Nigeria work. And if the sacrifice required of me is four years of sincere, accountable leadership, so be it,” Obi said.

“Throughout my political journey, I have never been involved in thuggery, the snatching of ballot boxes, or any form of electoral malpractice.

“I challenge anyone: conduct your investigations. You will find no stains of rigging or violence associated with my name. I have always chosen the path of peace, principle, and civility.”

Obi said that in four years, it would be possible to confront corruption head-on and redirect national resources to priority areas.

He noted that the trillions currently spent on acquiring new presidential jets and other unnecessary expenses could instead be channelled into vital sectors such as education, healthcare, or infrastructure.

He added that within the same period, his administration would ensure that the rule of law was upheld and treated as sacrosanct and that credible, free, and fair elections would be conducted.

Obi emphasised that, to him, leadership was not about entitlement but about service.

He pledged that if given the mandate for just one term, he would dedicate every moment to building a Nigeria that works for everyone.