Photo: Peter Obi
Mandy Park
Former presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi, has formally announced his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing what he described as a deepening “toxic political environment” within the party and the wider Nigerian political space.
In a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi lamented the deteriorating state of political engagement in the country, marked by internal crises, external interference, and what he termed increasing hostility within party structures.
He noted that intimidation, insecurity, and relentless scrutiny have become defining features of Nigeria’s political climate.
Obi further expressed concern that institutions established to safeguard citizens and uphold democratic values are, in many cases, failing to deliver on their mandates.
According to him, individuals genuinely committed to public service are often subjected to undue pressure, both in the public arena and behind the scenes.
Clarifying the circumstances surrounding his exit, the former Anambra State governor stressed that his decision was not driven by personal grievances against key figures in the party, including former Senate President David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, both of whom he said he holds in high regard.
Rather, he pointed to persistent internal divisions, protracted legal disputes, and what he described as the infiltration of destabilising elements—issues he noted were reminiscent of challenges he faced during his time in the Labour Party.
The former presidential candidate also decried what he sees as a troubling societal shift, where values such as integrity, humility, and respect for due process are increasingly misconstrued as signs of weakness.
He warned that sincere efforts at nation-building are being undermined by suspicion, exclusion, and political manoeuvring driven more by the quest for control than genuine service to the people.
Despite his resignation, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s development, maintaining that his political journey remains focused on addressing critical national challenges, including insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and displacement.
He emphasized that his aspiration is not rooted in the pursuit of power, but in the desire to contribute to building a just, inclusive, and functional society.
Obi’s departure from the ADC is expected to trigger fresh political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, as analysts suggest it could reshape opposition dynamics and coalition-building efforts in the coming months.
- His next political move, however, remains unclear at the time of filing this report.
