Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has criticised politicians who promise to serve only one term in office, suggesting such individuals may need psychiatric evaluation.
Speaking on Saturday during a political rally in Anambra South in support of his second-term bid, the former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor questioned the logic of pledging a single term, arguing it contradicts the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, which permits two terms.
“How can anybody with a functioning brain say that? Do you think you’re speaking to fools?” Soludo asked.
“Any politician who says they will serve only one term must be sent to a psychiatric home, because the person must have a mental problem.”
His remarks come weeks after Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, proposed a single six-year tenure for political office holders. Likewise, Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party and also a former governor of Anambra State, recently stated he would accept a one-term presidency in line with the principle of equity and zoning.
In a July 6 interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Obi said four years was sufficient for a serious and sincere leader to effect meaningful change.
“One term is enough to establish that good governance is possible,” Obi said. “If leaders can wreak maximum damage in two years, why can’t one make positive impact in four?”
He added that respecting zoning arrangements, even if not enshrined in the Constitution, helps maintain political balance. “I don’t need a day more than four years,” he said, “In two years, there has been maximum damage. Two years can change it in a good direction.”