2027: Anti-Tinubu plan: Opposition parties spark firestorm over 4-yr, single term for president
By Dapo Akinrefon, Gabriel Ewepu, James Ogunnaike, Shina Abubakar, and Adeola Badru
As the 2027 general elections approach, opposition political parties in Nigeria are discussing the possibility of uniting behind a single presidential candidate, one who would commit to serving just a four-year term. However, this initiative has raised concerns regarding its feasibility and the credibility of such a commitment.
Skepticism persists over political promises in Nigeria, especially those involving the relinquishment of constitutional rights once power is obtained. Historically, no Nigerian president has voluntarily restricted themselves to a single term after winning election. Since the return to democracy in 1999, presidents have typically served multiple terms. Notably, Olusegun Obasanjo secured two terms, while Goodluck Jonathan completed the term of his predecessor before winning his own term. Muhammadu Buhari also served two terms, while President Bola Tinubu, elected in 2023, is currently in his first term with the potential to seek re-election.
Last week, political stakeholders convened in Abuja under the banner of G-100, a coalition aiming to strategize for the upcoming elections. This summit produced a proposal for a Government of National Competence, focused on a singular four-year transitional term. Five working groups are expected to draft a Single-Term Transition Charter and a roadmap to select a unified presidential candidate as part of a broader National Reset Programme.
The discussions take place within the context of Nigeria’s complex political landscape, where the allure of a second term has remained a key consideration, altering political dynamics even when agreements regarding zoning and succession are made.
A critical issue arises: can any individual who secures the presidency and enjoys the substantial power of incumbency be trusted to walk away after a single term? Advocates suggest that a single term could allow a president to implement meaningful reforms without the distraction of re-election preparations. Critics, however, argue that without constitutional amendments and robust institutional frameworks, such proposals lack substance.
As the political climate intensifies, various stakeholders—politicians, lawyers, civil society activists, and regional organizations—have expressed doubts about the trustworthiness of the opposition. Many believe that political figures may not adhere to promises concerning term limits.
Akin Oshuntokun, a former advisor to Obasanjo, stated he sees little to positively change from the proposal due to political realities. He highlighted that if a president performs well, it seems illogical to demand their departure.
Chief Ademola Folarin, the General Secretary of Afenifere, indicated that while the proposal is feasible, reliance on it may be politically naïve. He emphasized that the northern political establishment may not be easily convinced of such unbinding pledges.
Concerns over the timing of the proposal have been raised, with some observers questioning the late-stage effort to consolidate support for a common candidate. Former House Minority Leader Dr. Wumi Bewaji noted both constitutional and practical obstacles in the proposal’s implementation, emphasizing the lack of legal ground for agreements about single terms.
Advocates for the proposal urge the opposition to communicate their vision clearly to the electorate while acknowledging the deeply rooted skepticism surrounding political promises. They argue that without established mechanisms to enforce such commitments, promises could easily shift if political fortunes change.
Experts and political analysts stress the urgency of credible governance and the need for transparency in political arrangements. Many agree that stakeholder involvement in the process is essential to ensure a legitimate and accountable system moving forward.
As the 2027 election campaign continues to take shape, the question remains: can an agreement on a single-term presidency effectively address the pressing challenges facing Nigeria, or will it become another unfulfilled political promise?
