By Atoyebi Nike
Human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi has endorsed Peter Obi’s proposal for a single-term presidency, arguing that prolonged time in office has not translated into real progress for Nigeria.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, Farotimi criticized former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari, as well as current President Bola Tinubu, for failing to deliver substantial change despite having years in power.
“Obasanjo had eight years; what did he do with it? Buhari had eight years; he ruined Nigeria. Tinubu has had two years, and he is taking us back 50 years. It’s not about how long you serve but what you do with the time,” Farotimi said.
The activist, known for his vocal stance on justice and systemic reform, said he first heard the single-term idea from Obi during the last election cycle. He maintained that lasting change could be achieved in as little as two years.
Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has consistently pledged to serve only one term if elected, more recently suggesting a five-year tenure without re-election, a system similar to South Korea’s. He argued that such a model would compel leaders to focus on governance without the distraction of seeking a second term.
The proposal has sparked debate, with supporters praising the idea and critics questioning its feasibility and Obi’s sincerity.
