- Fayose: “Mandela Served for One Term and He Did a Lot for South Africa”
By Abiola Olawale
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo’s criticism of the 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate and former governor of Anamvra State, Mr Peter Obi’s pledge to serve a single term in the presidency if given the opportunity has been greeted with further massive rebuke.
The governor’s remarks, perceived as a subtle jab at certain political figures, have drawn sharp responses from Nigerians, including Isaac Fayose, the brother of former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose.
The New Diplomat had reported that Soludo, speaking at a recent political event, questioned the credibility of politicians promising to serve just one term, suggesting such pledges are often politically motivated and lack sincerity.
“How can anybody with a functioning brain say that? Do you think you’re speaking to fools?
“You come to people and say you will do only one term, any politician who says that must be sent to a psychiatric home because the person must have some mental problem,” Soludo said.
While Soludo did not name specific individuals, the statement has fueled speculation and polarized opinions across Nigeria’s political landscape.
Isaac Fayose, took to X to counter Soludo’s remarks. In a widely shared post, Fayose wrote: “Prof. Soludo should go and read about Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa. He only did one term as President and said he didn’t want to go for a second term.”
Fayose’s reference to Mandela, who served as South Africa’s first Black president from 1994 to 1999, highlighted the impact a single term can have when led by a visionary leader.
The New Diplomat reports that Mandela, globally revered for his role in dismantling apartheid and fostering racial reconciliation, chose not to seek re-election in 1999, citing his age and a desire to prioritize democratic transitions.
His presidency, though brief, is credited with laying the foundation for South Africa’s democratic era, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 alongside F.W. de Klerk.
Below are some other reactions;
“Fayose bringing up Mandela to counter Soludo is spot on! One term can change a nation if the leader is serious. Soludo should focus on delivering, not criticizing.”(@IgboVoice22)
“Mandela’s one term changed South Africa forever. Soludo should focus on delivering, not throwing shade.” (@NaijaVoice247)
“But what did the constitution specify
The constitution specifies only 4 years.
It’s not a must for you to do another 4 years.
Except you choose to go for a second term.
get that right.” (@Nedumu1)
“Nelson Mandela served just one term.
True leadership isn’t measured by how long you stay in office, but by the impact you make while you’re there.
“Some people have been conditioned to believe that longevity equals productivity: it doesn’t take decades to influence generations.” (@tikusion)
