By Clement John
ABUJA — Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has announced his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accusing government actors of fueling crises within opposition parties and describing Nigeria’s political environment as “toxic.”
In a personal address shared on Sunday via his X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi said his decision to leave the party was not borne out of any dispute with its leadership, including former Senate President David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as respected figures.
Instead, Obi pointed to what he called persistent interference by state actors in opposition politics, alleging a pattern of destabilization similar to what he 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, citing internal disputes, legal battles, and what he described as a system driven by control and exclusion.
The former Anambra State governor painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s political climate, describing it as increasingly hostile and burdened by intimidation and insecurity. He said individuals committed to public service often face subtle but intense pressure, even from within their own political circles.
“We now live in an environment that has become increasingly toxic,” Obi stated, noting that both open opposition and quiet withdrawal by allies contribute to the strain.
Reflecting on the personal cost of political engagement, Obi spoke of “silent pains” and emotional burdens, adding that integrity and discipline are often misread as weakness in the current system.
He maintained that his decision to exit the ADC was aimed at restoring calm within the party, even if it exposes him to further criticism.
“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,” he said.
Obi reiterated that his political ambition is not driven by the pursuit of office but by a desire to address Nigeria’s deepening socio-economic challenges, including insecurity, poverty, and displacement.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President,” he said. “I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed… a country where citizens do not go to bed hungry.”
Despite his departure from the ADC, Obi expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, calling for leadership anchored on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity.
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