Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has announced his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing deepening internal crises and what he described as a hostile political environment.
Obi disclosed this in a personal statement shared on Sunday via his X platform, where he reflected on the “toxic” nature of Nigeria’s political space and the pressures faced by public figures.
He clarified that his decision was not driven by personal grievances with key party figures, including the ADC National Chairman, David Mark, and former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, noting that he still holds them in high regard.
According to Obi, his departure was prompted by recurring internal conflicts and external pressures, which he said were beginning to mirror the challenges he previously experienced in the Labour Party.
“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,” he said.
He pointed to persistent court cases, internal divisions, and an atmosphere of suspicion within the party, warning that such issues were diverting attention from pressing national concerns.
Obi also lamented what he described as a culture where integrity, humility, and service are often misinterpreted as weakness, adding that individuals acting in good faith are frequently subjected to criticism and misrepresentation.
“Even within spaces where one labours sincerely, one is sometimes treated like an outsider,” he said, noting that he and his team had often become targets of blame despite their contributions.
The former Anambra State governor emphasised that his political ambition is not driven by a quest for power, but by a desire to build a more just and functional society.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that works for all,” he stated.
Despite his exit from the ADC, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s development, expressing optimism that the country can still achieve leadership anchored on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity.
“A new Nigeria is possible,” he added.