Former First Lady Backs single-term Presidency

Former First Lady of Ondo State, Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has thrown her weight behind a single-term presidency, citing the need for focused governance in Nigeria.

In a statement made available to the Nation, she emphasized that this position is not new to her, having consistently advocated for a one-term presidency on her social media platforms.

“I strongly align with some leaders’ call for a single-term presidency. This position is not new to me,” she said.

“Anyone who follows my public commentary, especially on X (formerly Twitter), knows that I have consistently advocated for a one-term presidency, and I remain convinced that it offers Nigeria a clearer path to focused governance.”

Akeredolu argued that the current system, where leaders focus on re-election, has led to governance being pushed into recession.

She noted that attention shifts from delivery to survival, and energy is expended on positioning and alliances rather than development and welfare.

“A single-term framework offers the opportunity to restore discipline to governance. It compels leaders to focus on legacy rather than longevity, delivery rather than popularity, and institutions rather than personal political futures,” she stated.

However, Akeredolu emphasized that the conversation must go beyond principle to design, raising questions about the length of the single term, when it should take effect, and how to manage transition without destabilizing the system.