BREAKING: Peter Obi Confirms Exit From ADC, Alleges Political Interference, Deepening Internal Crisis, Hostility

Abuja,  Nigeria- Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has confirmed his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing what he described as worsening political interference, internal instability, and a toxic environment that has made meaningful engagement increasingly difficult.

Obi made this known on Sunday in a statement addressed to Nigerians, where he opened up about what he called the “silent pains” and “private struggles” faced by individuals trying to serve sincerely in Nigeria’s political space.

“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,” Obi began.

The former Anambra State governor lamented over deteriorating national environment, marked by intimidation, insecurity, and systemic discouragement of honest leadership.

“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 stated.

In a tone that reflects growing frustration within opposition politics, Obi revealed that even within political associations, individuals who are expected to provide solidarity sometimes become part of the problem.

“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. Some who publicly identify with you privately distance themselves or join in unfair criticism,” he added.

Obi, who recently aligned with opposition figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar under the ADC coalition, was however careful to absolve key party leaders of any personal wrongdoing in his decision to leave.

“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,” Obi clarified.

However, he raised alarm over what he described as a familiar pattern of political interference by state actors, which he said had previously destabilised the Labour Party and is now manifesting 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, instead of focusing on deeper national problems,” he alleged.

Obi further decried a political culture that, according to him, prioritises control and exclusion over service and nation-building.

“Even within spaces where one labours sincerely, one is sometimes treated like an outsider in one’s own home. You and your team become easy targets for every failure, frustration, or misunderstanding, as though honest contribution has become a favour being tolerated rather than appreciated,” he said.

The former governor also spoke about the backlash he continues to face despite his efforts, noting that even stepping aside does not shield one from attacks.

“And when you choose to leave so that those you are leaving can have peace, and you step out into the cold, you are still maligned and your character is questioned,” Obi stated.

However, Obi questioned the values of Nigerian society, particularly the perception of integrity and humility.

“There are moments I ask God in prayer: Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country? Why is integrity not valued? Why is the prudent management of resources, especially when invested in critical areas like education and healthcare, wrongly labelled as stinginess? Why are humility and obedience to the rule of law often taken to be weakness rather than discipline?” he queried.

Obi, however, dismissed suggestions that his political moves are driven by personal ambition, insisting that his priorities lie in addressing Nigeria’s humanitarian and socio-economic challenges.

“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 while going to school or work,” he said.

He added, “I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people will not live in IDP camps but in their homes. I am desperate for a country where Nigerian citizens do not go to bed hungry, not knowing where their next meal will come from.”

Despite announcing his departure from the ADC, Obi maintained a tone of resilience and hope, reiterating his belief in Nigeria’s potential for 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,” he concluded.

His exit from the ADC marks another significant shift in Nigeria’s evolving opposition landscape, raising fresh questions about coalition stability and the broader struggle for political reform ahead of future elections.

“A new Nigeria is possible.”