Peter Obi Faults Soludo’s Criticism of One-Term Vow, Cites Mandela
Stalwarts of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been at odds over who to field as their presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, with some backing former President Goodluck Jonathan, while others favour former Labour Party (LP) candidate Peter Obi.
A high-powered faction within the PDP has reportedly been tasked with persuading Jonathan to return to the race, offering him an automatic ticket. This initiative stems from concerns within the party about Peter Obi’s reluctance to fully rejoin the PDP. Sources have revealed that party leaders, particularly those with eyes on the 2031 presidential race, view Jonathan as a safer option for the 2027 transition due to his eligibility for only one more term under the constitutional two-term limit.
A member of the PDP Board of Trustees, speaking anonymously, explained to The Guardian that while Obi’s one-term pledge is noted, many believe that Jonathan would bring greater stability to the party. He stated, “Efforts are intensifying to persuade Jonathan to run. The northern faction is keen on his return, as they view it as a continuation of his second term.” He further emphasised that the Obi option has not been dismissed entirely but noted the risks involved with the Labour Party’s current instability and the need for a strong contender.
Reports indicate that discussions surrounding Jonathan’s possible return were central to recent talks among party leaders, including a meeting held in The Gambia, which also focused on strengthening the party’s financial capabilities for the 2027 campaign. Lawal Muazu, Special Assistant to Governor Bala Mohammed, confirmed that he, along with Jonathan and Senator Abdul Ningi, participated in a summit in The Gambia aimed at promoting democratic governance and bilateral relations across African nations.
Governor Bala Mohammed, a vocal advocate of Jonathan, had previously pledged his unwavering support for the former president, stating that he would not present himself as a presidential candidate if Jonathan chose to run.
Peter Obi’s reluctance to return to the PDP has been much discussed within the party. Dr Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh, a leader of the Obidient Movement, suggested that Obi would be unwise to rejoin the PDP in its current state, noting that the party’s stability could only be ensured following its upcoming elective convention in November. “It’s risky to swim in a river filled with sharks and crocodiles,” he remarked.
On the other hand, Professor Jerry Gana, a former National Chairman of the PDP, expressed confidence in Obi’s ability to secure victory in the 2027 election if he contests under the PDP banner. In an interview on Arise News, Gana highlighted Obi’s broad appeal in northern Nigeria, asserting that he would triumph over any opponent in the region. Gana also lamented the missed opportunity in 2023, suggesting that Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s presidential candidate in 2023, should have supported Obi for the vice-presidency.
Despite maintaining his membership in the Labour Party, Obi has engaged in political alliances with the African Democratic Congress-led coalition. Gana’s statements reflect ongoing efforts to secure Obi’s return to the PDP, with the party’s leadership keen to unite behind a strong candidate.
Peter Obi Defends One-Term Pledge Amid Soludo’s Criticism
In a separate development, Peter Obi has responded to criticisms by Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, who questioned the credibility of politicians promising to serve only one term. Soludo, speaking at the Anambra South Solidarity rally in Ekwulobia, dismissed such pledges as deceptive, stating that politicians making such promises should be subjected to psychiatric evaluation.
Obi, in a statement posted on his X handle (formerly Twitter), reaffirmed his commitment to serving only one term if elected president. Drawing comparisons with global leaders, Obi referenced Nelson Mandela’s decision to step down after one term as a symbol of leadership and justice. He also cited John F. Kennedy, whose brief time in office left a lasting legacy despite not completing a full term.
Obi defended his position, stating, “History shows that the longer many African leaders remain in power, the more likely they are to be corrupted by it. Longevity in office is not a mark of success; rather, it is purposeful, accountable service that defines true statesmanship.”
He further emphasised that his pledge was sincere, and that his track record, unlike those of some critics, would bear scrutiny. “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 concluded.
The tension between Obi and Soludo reflects the broader political rivalry between the two Anambra leaders, both of whom harbour aspirations for the presidency, with Soludo particularly eyeing the 2031 election. Analysts believe that Soludo views Obi’s potential candidacy as a threat to his long-term ambitions for the Igbo presidency.
