Peter Obi Dumps ADC, Cites External Interference
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has announced his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing a toxic political atmosphere, internal crises, and external interference undermining the party’s stability.
In a personally signed statement on Sunday, Obi explained that his decision was not based on personal grievances but on what he described as a growing pattern of division, suspicion, and systemic disruption within 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,” Obi said. “I will continue to respect them.”
The former Anambra State governor warned that the same forces he accused of destabilising the Labour Party are beginning to surface 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 stated.
Obi described Nigeria’s political climate as increasingly hostile to sincerity and reform-oriented leadership, noting that intimidation, insecurity, and persistent scrutiny have become widespread.
“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,” he added.
Reflecting on his experience, Obi said even some allies have contributed to the pressure faced by reformers.
“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. “Some who publicly identify with you privately distance themselves or join in unfair criticism.”
He further criticised what he described as distorted values in the country’s political culture.
“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,” Obi noted.
“A system where treating people equally is questioned simply because you refuse to worship status, tribe, class, or power.”
Despite his exit, Obi maintained that his political ambition is driven by a desire for national progress rather than the pursuit of power.
“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.
“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.”
He also spoke about the personal toll of his political journey, referencing “silent pains,” “emotional burdens,” and “quiet battles” encountered while trying to serve with sincerity.
“There are moments I ask God in prayer: Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country?” he said. “Why is integrity not valued?”
Obi concluded by reaffirming his belief in Nigeria’s potential despite the challenges.
“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 said. “A new Nigeria is possible.”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
