Former Rivers State governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, affirmed that he intends to serve only one term if elected president under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He made this announcement on Channels Television’s Politics Today, stressing that a single term aligns with Nigeria’s informal but widely respected rotational power-sharing principle between the North and South. Indeed, he stated that if elected, he would serve strictly four years to uphold this balance.
Furthermore, Amaechi recalled his critical role in 2015, when he opposed the extension of a southern presidency beyond its agreed four years. Because he recognized the potential for instability, he actively supported transferring power to the North. Consequently, he reiterated his belief that such power rotations help maintain national unity.
Obi Declares 2027 Run–Vows to Honor Rotational Norm
Meanwhile, in late June 2025, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi officially announced his intention to contest the 2027 elections. During a live session and through media statements, Obi confirmed that he would comply with any single-term agreement, pledging to step down by May 28, 2031, if bound by a four-year tenure agreement.
Moreover, Obi emphasized his dedication to Nigeria’s unwritten rotational pact. He affirmed that he would respect a southern candidate’s single-term term if it aligned with regional arrangements . Additionally, he promised to foster vibrant opposition while discouraging party defections within that timeframe.
Their Positions Reflect Growing Zoning Tensions
As the 2027 election approaches, Nigeria has entered a period of heightened discussion over rotational zoning. Although the ADC has not finalized its zoning formula, both Amaechi and Obi made clear that they would respect established traditions. Consequently, their unified stand could provide reassurance to stakeholders concerned about the equitable distribution of power.
Specifically, since President Bola Tinubu—himself from the South-West—will complete a four-year term, both candidates’ pledges signal a commitment to handing over power to a northern candidate afterward. Indeed, they argued that misalignment with this practice risks destabilizing the political landscape.
Commitments Reinforce Opposition Strategy
By aligning on single-term pledges, both leaders position themselves as champions of rotational equity. Notably, Amaechi and Obi currently operate under or in collaboration with the ADC, reflecting a deliberate coalition-building strategy aimed at presenting a unified front.
Moreover, Obi’s assurance to avoid alliances formed solely for power-sharing suggests he seeks coalitions grounded in policy priorities—such as national security, economic recovery, and reducing poverty.
Broader Implications for Nigeria
Ultimately, Amaechi’s and Obi’s promises carry weight beyond personal ambition. Firstly, they reinforce the unwritten tradition that has underpinned Nigeria’s democratic transitions since 1999. Secondly, they aid in shaping public trust and coalition dynamics by signaling respect for institutional fairness. Lastly, their commitments may pressure other parties to adopt similar stances, especially as citizens grow more sensitive to power balance and democratic integrity.
Conclusion
In summary, both Rotimi Amaechi and Peter Obi have embraced the principle of single-term presidencies to maintain Nigeria’s unwritten North–South power-sharing agreement. Because they voiced these commitments early in the campaign cycle, they may influence ADC’s zoning decisions and strengthen confidence among voters who prioritize democratic balance. Consequently, their pledges reflect an emerging consensus that Nigeria’s future leaders must honor rotational norms to sustain national unity and democratic legitimacy.
