The vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, has revealed that the party’s presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi, formally agreed to serve only a single four-year term if elected in 2027, as part of a broader power-sharing arrangement within the party.
Kwankwaso made this disclosure during a televised interview on Monday, explaining that the agreement was designed to ensure a smooth rotation of power between the southern and northern regions of the country. According to him, the arrangement reflects the party’s commitment to equity, balance, and national cohesion.
He noted that the understanding between both leaders was not merely verbal but properly documented. Separate agreements, he said, were signed—one involving the party and another directly between himself and Obi—clearly outlining the terms of the proposed single-term presidency.
Kwankwaso expressed confidence in Obi’s integrity and willingness to honour the deal, stating that he had no reason to doubt his running mate’s commitment.
“I believe him completely. From what I know about him, I do not expect him to go back on his word. We are all gentlemen,” Kwankwaso said.
He further explained that the agreement stipulates that Obi would serve from 2027 to 2031, after which power would return to the North in line with the party’s zoning principle.
“The idea is simple—we will work together as a united team for four years, and afterwards, leadership returns to the North. That is the foundation of our agreement,” he added.
Kwankwaso also shed light on why he accepted the vice-presidential role, emphasizing that both leaders had mutually agreed that the South should hold power for just one term before it rotates.
“We collectively agreed that the presidency should remain in the South for four years, then shift back to the North. This is about fairness and ensuring that every region feels included in governance,” he said.
Addressing speculations about his own future ambitions, particularly the possibility of contesting the presidency in 2031, Kwankwaso maintained that the party’s immediate priority is winning the 2027 election, although it remains mindful of its long-term political strategy.
“Our focus right now is on the task ahead in 2027, but we are also thinking about the future and how best to position the country for stability and progress,” he noted.
Peter Obi had earlier, in May, publicly declared his intention to serve only one term if elected, stressing that the decision was motivated by a desire to promote national stability and unity.
“I am committed to being a one-term president. Even under pressure, I would not extend my stay beyond four years,” Obi had stated at the time.
The NDC has consistently defended its zoning formula, presenting the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket as a carefully negotiated partnership aimed at balancing regional interests and fostering inclusiveness as the 2027 general election approaches.