Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has announced his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing deep concerns over Nigeria’s political environment and internal party challenges.
In a personally reflective statement released on Sunday, Obi expressed the emotional and psychological toll of navigating Nigeria’s political space, describing it as increasingly hostile and discouraging to sincere service.
“Fellow Nigerians, good morning. 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,” he began.
He highlighted the unseen struggles faced by public figures committed to national service, noting that many endure “silent pains… private struggles, emotional burdens, and quiet battles” while striving to make meaningful contributions.
Obi painted a bleak picture of the nation’s socio-political climate, stating that “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.”
The former Anambra State governor also lamented what he described as a culture of intimidation, insecurity, and persistent scrutiny, adding that even allies sometimes contribute to the pressures faced by reform-minded individuals.
“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.
Clarifying the circumstances surrounding his exit from the party, Obi stressed that his decision was not driven by personal grievances against the party leadership, including its chairman, David Mark, or former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar.
“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.
Instead, Obi pointed to recurring systemic issues within Nigeria’s political structure, alleging that the same forces that destabilised the Labour Party have begun 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,” he said.
Obi further expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of appreciation for genuine efforts, noting that even committed individuals are often treated as outsiders and blamed for systemic failures.
“And when you choose to leave so that those you are leaving can have peace… you are still maligned and your character is questioned,” he added.
Reflecting on broader societal values, Obi questioned why integrity and humility are often misinterpreted as weakness in Nigeria, asking: “Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country? Why is integrity not valued?”
Despite his resignation, Obi maintained that his political ambitions are not driven by a desire for power but by a commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerians.
“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… I am desperate for a country where Nigerian citizens do not go to bed hungry,” he said.
He concluded on a note of hope, reaffirming his belief in Nigeria’s potential to achieve competent and compassionate leadership grounded in justice and equal opportunity.
“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.”
