Following Governor Charles Soludo’s fiery remarks suggesting that any politician promising to serve only one term should undergo psychiatric evaluation, former Anambra Governor and 2027 presidential hopeful Peter Obi has issued a calm but firm response, defending his commitment as a matter of principle and not mental instability.
In a detailed statement on Sunday, Obi reaffirmed that he would serve only four years if elected President, describing the vow as “sacrosanct” and rooted in historical examples of transformational leadership.
” If making such a promise qualifies me for psychiatric evaluation, then we may as well question the mental fitness of those who framed our Constitution,” Obi said, pushing back at Soludo’s criticism without mentioning him by name.
Obi drew inspiration from iconic leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela, all of whom made lasting impact within a single term or less. He argued that effective leadership is about integrity and impact—not longevity in office.
“Forty-eight months is enough for any leader who is focused and prepared to make a meaningful difference,” he stated.
While acknowledging public skepticism towards political promises, Obi insisted his own track record speaks louder than speculation. He highlighted past achievements in Anambra State—improvements in education, healthcare, rural infrastructure, and fiscal discipline—as proof that he honors his commitments.
“I did not swear by a shrine, nor have I been certified mentally unstable for keeping my word,” he added pointedly.
Obi’s vow is anchored in a five-point agenda that includes:
– Sanitising Nigeria’s governance structure
– Tackling insecurity with accountability
– Prioritising education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation
– Catalysing small business growth
– Combating corruption relentlessly
Closing his statement, Obi reiterated that service should be purposeful, not eternal, and stressed the urgency of restoring public trust in leadership.
“I have done it before. I will not betray that trust under any circumstances. A new Nigeria is POssible.”
