Peter Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party (LP) banner, has indicated his willingness to serve only one term as president if elected in 2027.
This declaration comes amidst reports of a potential coalition forming, including Mr Obi, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, ex-transportation minister Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu for federal power.
During a Twitter Space discussion yesterday, Mr Obi articulated that any Southern candidate who assumes the presidency in 2027 must be prepared to vacate office by May 28, 2031.
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He linked this to Nigeria’s ‘unwritten power-sharing agreement’ and the established principle of zoning, which dictates the alternation of the presidency between the Northern and Southern regions.
Mr Obi underscored that adherence to this zoning principle is a commitment he has long upheld.
The former governor of Anambra State stated that should this gentleman’s agreement lead to him securing the coalition’s ticket for the 2027 presidency, and subsequently winning the election, he would not extend his stay in office beyond the agreed timeframe.
“If you consider the arrangement, which can understandably be called an unwritten agreement for power to alternate between South and North, and if that arrangement is strictly followed, then anyone – not just me – from the South who becomes president in 2027 must be ready to leave on May 28, 2031,” he explained.
The 63-year-old noted that he championed zoning during his tenure as governor, noting that his firm stance on this principle has made him a target for political adversaries.
He stressed his unwavering commitment to zoning, stating, “I insisted on it, I maintained it and I followed it to the last letter and till today, I still follow it religiously.”
Mr Obi further emphasised that his personal character and integrity supersede any desire for public office.
“I am not desperate to be president of Nigeria,” he affirmed.
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He added, “If I have the opportunity and if the opportunity is for two years, in two years, I would be able to bring competency, capacity and compassion into governance.”
