Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has opened up on the circumstances surrounding his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing a hostile political environment and growing internal crises within opposition platforms.
In a reflective message shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday morning, Obi described Nigeria’s political space as increasingly toxic, marked by intimidation, insecurity, and persistent attacks on individuals striving to contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Fellow Nigerians, good morning,” he began. “I woke up this morning after my church service with a deeply reflective heart, and despite every constraint, I felt compelled to share these thoughts with you.”
The former Anambra State governor spoke of the “silent pains” and personal struggles faced by individuals working within difficult political and social conditions.
“Many people do not truly understand the silent pains some of us carry daily—the private struggles, emotional burdens, and quiet battles we face while trying to survive and serve sincerely in difficult circumstances,” he said.
Obi lamented that Nigeria has evolved into a system where those expected to uphold fairness and opportunity often contribute to the challenges citizens face.
“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—a society where intimidation, insecurity, endless scrutiny, and discouragement have become normal,” he added.
He also expressed disappointment over what he described as betrayal and lack of solidarity from associates and political allies.
“More painful is when some of those you associate with, believing you would find understanding and solidarity among them, become part of the pressure you face,” he said.
Addressing speculation surrounding his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Obi clarified that his decision was not due to any personal grievances with key figures in the party.
“Let me state clearly: my decision to leave the ADC is not because our highly respected Chairman, Senator David Mark, treated me badly, nor because my leader and elder brother, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, or any other respected leaders did anything personally wrong to me. I will continue to respect them,” he stated.
According to him, the same systemic challenges that affected the Labour Party Nigeria are beginning to manifest within the ADC.
“However, the same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party that forced me to leave now appear to be finding their way into the ADC, with endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion, and division,” Obi said.
He criticised what he described as a political culture focused more on control and exclusion rather than service and nation-building.
Obi further decried a societal value system where virtues such as humility, fairness, and compassion are often misinterpreted.
“We live in a society where humility is mistaken for weakness, respect is seen as a lack of courage, and compassion is treated as foolishness,” he said.
Reaffirming his personal principles, he noted, “Personally, I have never looked down on anyone except to uplift them. I have never used privilege, position, or resources to oppress others.”
Despite the challenges, Obi said his commitment to Nigeria’s progress remains unwavering, stressing that his ambition is not driven by the pursuit of political office.
“Let me assure all that I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed,” he said.
He added that his vision is for a Nigeria where citizens live in safety and dignity, free from poverty and displacement.
“I am desperate for a country where Nigerian citizens do not go to bed hungry, not knowing where their next meal will come from,” he said.
Obi concluded on a hopeful note, expressing belief in the possibility of national transformation.
“Yet, despite everything, I remain resolute. I firmly believe that Nigeria can still become a country with competent leadership based on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity for all. A new Nigeria is POssible.”