Renowned media personality and former presidential spokesperson, Dr Reuben Abati, has criticised former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for his recent statement pledging to serve only one term if elected as Nigeria’s president.
Speaking during a segment of the Arise Television programme on Monday, Abati described Obi’s vow as a display of political desperation rather than a strategic or honourable offer.
The comment by Obi, which has gone viral on social media, continues to draw mixed reactions from Nigerians. In his statement, Obi asserted that he would commit to a single term in office, promising efficiency and delivery within that period.
However, Abati dismissed the pledge, arguing that such a promise is not only unrealistic but also reflective of the kind of gimmickry that has often misled Nigerian voters.
“What I am saying is that any politician that comes to you and says, ‘I am going to do only one term,’ that is a sign of desperation,” Abati said.
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“It will not work. Just like the gambit about serving food and carrying plates or doing boy-boy at parties that will be better organised by event planners. It is also a sign of desperation; it will not work,” he added, referencing some of Obi’s populist campaign gestures.
The former presidential aide urged Nigerians to be wary of political theatrics and instead focus on competence and merit when choosing leaders.
“Nigeria will only progress when the Nigerian people put competence above religion, region, and other sentiments, If Nigerian people are politically educated to a point where they can vote for a competent person regardless of where he comes from or his religion, that’s when the country will begin to move forward,” Abati said.
Peter Obi’s one-term declaration has also attracted criticism from the incumbent Anambra State governor, Professor Charles Soludo, who publicly rebuked the idea. Despite the backlash, Obi has maintained his stance, insisting that his commitment to a single term is rooted in a desire to deliver swift results.
