ABUJA: Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has publicly explained the reasons behind his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC), pointing to what he described as a toxic political environment, systemic interference, and persistent internal crises within opposition platforms.
In a reflective statement released on Sunday morning, Obi said his decision was not driven by personal grievances against key figures within the party, including former Senate President David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, both of whom he praised and expressed continued respect for.
Rather, he attributed his exit to broader structural challenges within Nigeria’s political space, which he said continue to undermine genuine efforts toward nation-building.
Obi described Nigeria’s socio-political climate as increasingly hostile, where individuals committed to public service face intimidation, scrutiny, and discouragement.
According to him, many leaders endure silent pains and private struggles while trying to operate with integrity in a system that often works against reform-minded individuals.
We now live in an environment that has become increasingly toxic, where the very system that should protect and create opportunities for decent living often works against the people, he said.
He lamented that even within political alliances, individuals who are expected to provide support sometimes contribute to internal pressure, distancing themselves publicly or engaging in criticism behind the scenes.
Obi alleged that the same forces that destabilised the Labour Party leading to his earlier departure are beginning to infiltrate the ADC.
He cited recurring court cases, internal divisions, and rising distrust among party members as evidence.
“The same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party… now appear to be finding their way into the ADC, he stated.
He warned that such developments shift focus away from critical national issues and instead promote politics driven by control, exclusion, and power struggles.
Reaffirming his leadership philosophy, Obi emphasized service, humility, and equality as core values guiding his political journey.
I have never looked down on anyone except to uplift them,he said, adding that he has consistently avoided using privilege or position to intimidate or oppress others.
He also criticized societal attitudes that interpret humility as weakness and compassion as foolishness, noting that such perceptions discourage ethical leadership.
Obi expressed concern that integrity and prudent management of public resources are often misunderstood or misrepresented in Nigeria.
He questioned why responsible governance, particularly in critical sectors like education and healthcare, is sometimes labelled negatively, while discipline and adherence to the rule of law are seen as signs of weakness.
The former Anambra State governor reiterated that his political engagement is not fueled by personal ambition for high office but by a desire to address pressing national challenges.
I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President, he said. I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed… a Nigeria where people do not go to bed hungry.
He highlighted issues such as insecurity, displacement, and poverty as areas demanding urgent attention.
Despite his concerns, Obi maintained an optimistic outlook, expressing confidence that Nigeria can still achieve competent leadership anchored on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity.
He concluded with his signature message of hope: A new Nigeria is possible.
His exit from the ADC adds another layer of uncertainty to Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of future electoral cycles, as analysts continue to assess the implications for coalition-building and political realignments.
