Professor Femi Otubanjo, a research professor at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, has said that anyone who becomes Nigeria’s president must contend with a powerful system that shapes decision making from within the Presidential Villa.
Speaking during an interview with Arise News on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, Otubanjo explained that the Presidency functions with its own established structures and way of operating, making it difficult for newcomers to fully understand what awaits them before assuming office.
He noted that neither Peter Obi nor Rabiu Kwankwaso, the presidential and vice-presidential candidates of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has previously served within that environment, meaning they have not experienced the realities of governing from the nation’s highest office.
According to the professor, occupying the Presidency often changes perspectives because of the enormous influence, responsibilities and privileges associated with the position.
He argued that promises made before assuming office, including commitments to serve only one term, can become difficult to uphold once leaders are confronted with the demands and political realities of governance.
“Aso Rock has its own logic and culture. Unfortunately, neither Obi nor Kwankwaso has being in Aso Rock, they have never worked there and they don’t know the culture of the environment. It is an environment that tends to give you the false impression of your power and acceptability. When they get there and start seeing the opportunities of power and privileges, they will not be talking of one term,” he said.
Otubanjo’s remarks come amid renewed attention on the power sharing agreement between Obi and Kwankwaso.
Kwankwaso recently confirmed that he and Obi had reached an understanding before emerging as the party’s presidential ticket, agreeing that their administration would last for only one term if elected.
The arrangement has been widely interpreted as part of efforts to promote regional balance and strengthen unity within the opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general election.
However, political observers have questioned whether such an agreement can survive the pressures of governing, arguing that the realities of holding executive power often reshape political calculations after an election victory……See More
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