Peter Obi Resigns from ADC Over ‘Toxic’ Political Climate

2027 presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, has announced his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing growing internal crises and systemic challenges within Nigeria’s political environment.

In a statement shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, Obi expressed deep frustration over what he described as a “toxic” political climate marked by intimidation, insecurity, and persistent internal conflicts.

“Many people do not truly understand the silent pains some of us carry daily, the private struggles, emotional burdens, and quiet battles we face while trying to survive and serve sincerely in difficult circumstances,” he wrote.

The former Anambra State governor said his decision to exit the Opposition coalition’s party was not driven by personal grievances against its leadership. He specifically absolved key figures within the party of any wrongdoing.

“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 stated.

However, he accused elements within the system of undermining political parties through crises and division, drawing parallels with his previous experience in the Labour Party (LP).

“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 said.

Obi lamented what he described as a culture where integrity and humility are often misinterpreted as weakness, while genuine efforts at service are undervalued.

“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,” he added.

Reflecting on his personal values, Obi maintained that his leadership philosophy has always been rooted in service and equality.

“I have never looked down on anyone except to uplift them. I have never used privilege, position, or resources to oppress others, intimidate the weak, or make people feel small. To me, leadership has always been about service, sacrifice, and helping others rise,” he said.

The former governor also decried what he sees as misplaced priorities in the country, noting that leaders often focus on political control rather than addressing pressing national issues.

“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?” he queried.

Obi emphasised that his political ambition is not driven by the pursuit of power, but by a desire to see meaningful change in Nigeria.

“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.

“I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people will not live in IDP camps but in their homes… a country where Nigerian citizens do not go to bed hungry,” he added.

Despite his resignation, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s progress, expressing hope for a future anchored on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity.

“I firmly believe that Nigeria can still become a country with competent leadership based on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity for all,” Obi concluded.