Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has announced his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing deepening internal crises and a worsening political environment.
Obi made the announcement on Sunday in a statement shared on his X handle, saying the decision followed “deep personal reflection” and what he described as “silent pains” experienced within Nigeria’s political space.
He said the country’s system has become increasingly toxic, characterised by intimidation, insecurity and discouragement that undermine genuine public service.
“We now live in an environment that has become increasingly toxic, where the system that should protect and create opportunities often works against the people,” he said.
Obi also alleged that he faced internal pressures and unfair criticism, noting that political alliances often lack sincerity.
“Some who publicly identify with you privately distance themselves or join in unfair criticism,” he stated, adding that humility is frequently misinterpreted as weakness.
The former Anambra State governor clarified that his decision was not driven by personal grievances against ADC leaders, including former Senate President David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, both of whom he said he respects.
Instead, he blamed persistent legal disputes, internal wrangling and political divisions within the party.
“The same Nigerian state and its agents that created crises within the Labour Party now appear to be finding their way into the ADC, with endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion and division,” he said.
Obi stressed that he is not driven by personal ambition for political office but by a desire to see improvements in national welfare.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President or Senate President. I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people can live in dignity, without hunger, fear, or displacement,” he said.
Despite his exit, Obi maintained optimism about the country’s future, reiterating his signature message: “A new Nigeria is possible.”
