Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate from the 2023 elections, has expressed his commitment to serving only one term if elected as president in 2027. During a recent Twitter Space hosted by Parallel Facts, Obi revealed his willingness to adhere to an “unwritten power-sharing agreement” that calls for the presidency to alternate between the North and South of Nigeria.

Obi emphasized that any candidate from the South who wins the 2027 election must be prepared to vacate office on May 29, 2031, in line with the established zoning principles he has long advocated. This understanding has led to discussions of a coalition involving prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi, and Nasir el-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna, aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming general election.

“I have always believed that the zoning principle should be respected, and if anyone from the South is granted the presidency in 2027, that individual must understand the importance of adhering to this agreement,” Obi stated. “This unwritten arrangement compels a commitment to leave office on May 28, 2031.”

Reflecting on his political career, Obi shared his persistent advocacy for zoning during his tenure as governor of Anambra State, noting that such dedication has rendered him a target for political adversaries. “My insistence on this principle has drawn criticism, but I will continue to uphold it,” he affirmed.

The former governor underscored that integrity and character are paramount for him, prioritizing these values over the pursuit of power. “I am not desperate to be president of Nigeria. If given the opportunity, even if it’s for a short term, I believe I can bring competency, capacity, and compassion to governance,” Obi concluded.