On Tuesday, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, noted that Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has officially submitted his proposal to serve only one term in office to a coalition of opposition leaders.
Tanko made this known during an event held in Gombe State, where Obi was honored with the chieftaincy title ‘Sarki Maskan’ (War Hero) by the Pantami community.
Alongside the traditional title, the former Anambra governor received a letter of commendation for his service and kindness to the people.
His former media aide was also honored with the title of ‘Dan Maje Babba Pantanmi’ and received a letter of recognition signed by the District Head of Pantami Palace, Mai Martaba Abdullahi.
Speaking after the event, Tanko explained that Obi’s proposal had been shared with key opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Senate President David Mark. The plan involves Obi committing to serve only one four-year term if supported in the 2027 elections.
“We have presented it to the coalition. It is there for them to make a decision. But we are confident it can work. This is a pronouncement rooted in integrity, and Peter Obi embodies that. What Nigeria needs now are leaders with integrity,” Tanko said.
He also noted that Obi believes four years is enough to turn around Nigeria’s economy and governance.
“Obi has said clearly—even though the single term is not in the constitution—that he is committing himself to serve only one tenure. He believes four years is more than enough to accomplish his mission. That shows you how prepared and focused he is,” Tanko added.
The coordinator mentioned that the proposal was not just political but strategic. “Even stabilising electricity alone will solve a multitude of problems. He is promising that under his leadership, Nigeria will become an exporting country again. Planes will no longer leave our airports empty,” he explained.
Tanko also spoke about Obi’s decision to accept the chieftaincy title in Pantami, saying it was a rare move. According to him, Obi usually avoids such honors, but the community’s gesture stood out.
“Obi is not a man who chases titles. But this one is special. It comes from a northern community recognising an Igbo man for his generosity and impact. It speaks volumes about Obi’s growing national acceptance, especially in the North where he was less favoured during the 2023 elections,” he noted.
Obi’s ongoing humanitarian projects in northern Nigeria were also discussed. Tanko shared that Obi had provided clean water through boreholes and helped communities with basic infrastructure needs.
“His Excellency has visited places without potable water and funded borehole projects. In Pantami today, there is clean water not just for people but even for animals. Locals now say, ‘Go fetch me water from Peter Obi’s borehole.’ That tells you something has changed,” he stated.
He continued by pointing out Obi’s work with young people and vulnerable groups.
“He also supports entrepreneurship among northern youths and visits Almajiri schools, even helping to build toilets where there were none. These gestures have earned him deep grassroots support,” he said.
