Why Peter Obi says he’ll only be President for 4 years— Actor Kenneth Okonkwo breaks it down

Veteran Nollywood actor and political figure, Kenneth Okonkwo, has weighed in on the ongoing national conversation surrounding Peter Obi’s vow to serve a single term if elected President of Nigeria.

In a recent interview with Arise TV, Okonkwo stated that Obi’s one-term pledge aligns perfectly with the Nigerian Constitution, which allows a maximum of two four-year terms but does not mandate both must be completed.

Okonkwo argued that the two-term expectation has become normalized due to the political class’ attachment to power, but reminded critics that a one-term presidency is both legal and potentially more effective in driving focused reforms.

His remarks come in defense of Peter Obi’s renewed commitment to serve only one term if elected—an idea that continues to spark mixed reactions across the political landscape.

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party and former Anambra State governor, had earlier reiterated his one-term agenda via his official Facebook page, describing it as a “sacrosanct” promise rooted in his drive for purposeful, transparent, and accountable leadership.

Obi emphasized that Nigeria’s urgent need is not long-term power holders, but focused leaders with clarity of mission and a willingness to deliver within a constitutionally provided timeframe.

Referencing globally respected historical leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and Nelson Mandela, Obi argued that the greatness of a leader lies not in duration, but in the impact made while in office.

Kenneth Okonkwo reinforced this sentiment, noting that leaders should be judged by their achievements, not tenure. He also explained that the tendency of past Nigerian leaders to view a second term as an entitlement has led to complacency and stagnation.

As the 2027 election season begins to gather momentum, Peter Obi’s one-term declaration remains a unique and defining stance, separating him from other political contenders and igniting debates on what real leadership should look like in a country longing for change.