Former Labour Party spokesperson and legal practitioner, Kenneth Okonkwo, has downplayed the sincerity behind one-term pledges made by presidential aspirants, describing such declarations as strategic rather than noble.
He argued that these promises are not born out of a desire to emulate global statesmen like Nelson Mandela, but are instead calculated moves aimed at navigating Nigeria’s complex political zoning arrangement.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, Okonkwo explained that Nigeria’s current political climate especially with a southerner having held the presidency for four years makes it difficult for any northern aspirant to campaign successfully without offering concessions.
“It’s purely a political strategy. There is nothing hidden about it because everybody every politician would want to complete his two terms if he has the opportunity,” Okonkwo stated firmly.
He emphasized that no serious politician willingly gives up the opportunity to serve a second term unless the political terrain demands such a move. According to him, the current zoning sensitivity in Nigeria makes a one-term promise a tool to pacify regional interests.
“But of course, if this were 2023, the same politician and presidential aspirant would not make the same promise,” Okonkwo said, pointing out the situational nature of such commitments.
He further criticized the idea that these candidates are modeling themselves after iconic leaders like Nelson Mandela, who served a single term as South Africa’s president by personal choice. “Anybody telling you it’s because he wants to be like Mandela or like this, that’s not true,” he declared.
Okonkwo’s comments come amidst growing debates over zoning, fairness, and equity ahead of the 2027 general elections. Several northern aspirants are reportedly considering a one-term pledge to ease fears of marginalization among southern voters and stakeholders.
However, Okonkwo warned Nigerians to be discerning, urging them to evaluate the motives behind political promises critically. He maintained that only a vigilant electorate could hold leaders accountable and prevent the manipulation of sentiments for personal gain.
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