Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has reignited the debate over Nigeria’s political structure, proposing that the presidency be limited to a single five-year term.
Obi made the call on Friday during a courtesy visit to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, arguing that the current two-term system encourages leaders to prioritise re-election campaigns over governance.
“I’ve said it before, and I want to repeat it here at the Government House — if I have the opportunity, we should scrap the second term,” Obi declared. “A single five-year term will allow leaders to focus entirely on delivering results instead of spending half their time plotting for re-election.”
Drawing inspiration from countries like South Korea, Obi said the reform would create a sense of urgency for leaders to perform. He also made a personal pledge ahead of the 2027 elections: if elected president, he would serve only one term, limiting himself to four years in office.
The former Anambra State governor also emphasised the need to strengthen Nigeria’s political institutions.
“I want political parties to be stronger than the President and Governors,” he said. “When parties are independent and disciplined, governance becomes more stable and accountable.”
Obi’s proposal has added fresh energy to ongoing conversations about political reforms, tenure limits, and how to build a governance system that prioritises performance over politics.
