“One-Term Pledge Not Up to You, Powerful Interests Will Pressure You” — Gov Sule to Peter Obi

Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has cautioned Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, that political realities often make it difficult for Nigerian presidents to keep a one-term pledge. Obi has repeatedly stated his willingness to serve only a single term if elected in 2027, but speaking on Arise Television’s *Prime Time* on Friday, Sule advised against underestimating the complexities of the role. He said that while a president may come into office intending to serve just four years, the demands of governance and the influence of powerful political interests frequently alter such plans.

“Peter Obi might say he wants to do one term, but it is not up to him,” Sule said. “Once he assumes office, powerful interests will pressure him, saying, ‘It’s our turn; you cannot do that to us,’ ‘we cannot allow you to do that,’ and ‘we will take you to court if you do that.’”

The governor also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration, praising efforts to stabilise the economy, boost oil production, and increase foreign reserves. Sule noted that Nigeria’s reserves have grown to about \$40 billion and oil output has risen from roughly 1.1 million barrels per day to 1.8 million. While acknowledging persistent security issues, particularly in the north, he said Tinubu has urged state governors and local government chairmen to use increased revenues to alleviate hardship among Nigerians.

“This is a government that is indeed going in the right direction,” Sule said. “Yes, we are still having problems with insecurity, but there are more resources available for both states and the federal government to fight it. There are still challenges, and the president himself has admitted that. I want governors and local government chairmen to touch the lives of people who are actually going through challenges.”