By Joy Yesufu
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has announced his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing persistent internal crises and what he described as a deteriorating political environment in Nigeria.
In a statement posted on Sunday via X (formerly Twitter), Obi said his decision followed “deep personal reflection” and the burden of “silent pains” experienced within the country’s political space.
He warned that Nigeria’s political climate has become increasingly hostile, characterised by intimidation, insecurity, and distrust—conditions he said undermine genuine efforts at public service.
“We now live in an environment that has become increasingly toxic, where the system that should protect and create opportunities often works against the people,” he stated.
Obi also lamented what he described as a culture of insincerity within political circles, noting that some allies publicly show support but privately distance themselves or engage in criticism.
Despite his departure, the former Anambra State governor clarified that his decision was not driven by personal grievances against key party figures, including David Mark and Atiku Abubakar, both of whom he said he continues to respect.
He attributed his exit instead to recurring legal disputes, internal divisions, and what he described as the infiltration of destabilising forces within the party—issues he said have distracted from addressing national challenges.
“The same forces that created crises in previous political platforms are now evident here, with endless court cases and internal battles,” he added.
Obi emphasised that his political ambition is not driven by personal gain but by a commitment to national development.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people can live in dignity, without hunger, fear, or displacement,” he said.
He reaffirmed his belief in the possibility of national renewal, declaring that “a new Nigeria is possible.”
