2027: Sam Amadi tackles Igbo leaders criticising Obi’s one-term pledge

The Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Sam Amadi, has tackled Igbo leaders begrudging the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, over his decision to serve only one term and adhere to the rotational presidency arrangement.

Amadi wondered why prominent Igbo leaders such as Emeka Ihedioha, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka, and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe had not signified interest in running for the presidency and serving eight years.

He made the remark while faulting those criticising Obi following claims by the NDC’s presidential running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, that they had signed a pact under which Obi would serve only one term as Nigeria’s president before handing over power to the North.

In a post on X titled, “Much Ado about Kwankwaso Interview,​” Amadi wrote: “Sometimes you guys should try and maintain some rigor in thinking. If you believe in zoning and say, ‘Let the South finish its term and power should go back to the North in 2031.’

“What does that mean? It means that any southerner coming to the presidency will only serve for one term.

“This man has been saying he will do one term only to keep faith with zoning, which is a critical element of Nigeria’s political stability. He is now doing what he promised, and you are crying blue murder.

“Before Peter Obi came out, what stopped selfless Igbos from running for the presidency? What? It is now you guys realise you have not been president for 100 years and must do eight years?

“Why cannot your great Igbo leaders like Emeka Ihedioha, Otti, Osita, Abaribe, etc., run for the presidency and do eight years? Why are you lot begrudging Peter Obi for respecting the zoning arrangement?

“He said he believes in zoning. Zoning requires that the North takes back power in 2031. If four years is too short for you, then come out and run for the presidency and do eight years.”