Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent member of the opposition coalition, has explained the strategic intent behind former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s pledge to serve only one term if elected. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Okonkwo said the promise is a calculated move to win support from Nigeria’s northern region, which might otherwise withhold its votes without such an assurance.
Okonkwo, a veteran actor turned politician, argued that any opposition party hoping to defeat an incumbent must be prepared to make concessions, such as limiting its presidential candidate’s tenure. He suggested that this approach helps ease concerns that one side could feel cheated in the electoral process. According to Okonkwo, the tactic was first used by Atiku Abubakar, who also promised to serve only one term.
By making a similar pledge, Obi aims to reassure the north that his presidency will not deprive the region of its turn in power, thereby promoting a more equitable distribution of authority. Okonkwo described the pledge as a purely political strategy designed to appeal to northern voters by guaranteeing that Obi’s term would not shortcut their opportunity to produce a president.
The significance of this strategy lies in its potential to reshape the electoral landscape amid Nigeria’s regional power dynamics. By offering the one‑term promise, Obi seeks to build trust and secure backing from key regions, a factor that could ultimately influence the outcome of the presidential election. As the political scene continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how effective this approach will be for Obi and the Labour Party.
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