Obi wuits ADC, cites alleged state interference in opposition politics

By James Ike

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has announced his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), blaming what he described as sustained interference by the Nigerian state in opposition parties and a worsening political climate.

In a personal statement released on Sunday via his X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi said his decision was not influenced by any disagreement with the party’s leadership, including its chairman, David Mark, or former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as respected figures in Nigerian politics.

Rather, he pointed to what he called a recurring pattern of political destabilisation allegedly linked to state actors, saying similar forces that triggered internal crises in the Labour Party were now beginning to affect the ADC.

“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,” Obi stated, referencing ongoing internal disputes and legal battles within opposition structures.

He described Nigeria’s political space as increasingly hostile and toxic, where public service is often met with pressure, scrutiny, and intimidation. According to him, even political allies sometimes contribute to the strain through shifting loyalty and public posturing.

Obi also reflected on the personal toll of political involvement, speaking of what he termed “silent pains” and emotional burdens associated with remaining in a system he believes often misunderstands discipline and restraint as weakness.

Explaining his decision to step away from the ADC, he said it was also intended to allow peace within the party, even if it attracted 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.

Reaffirming his broader political motivation, Obi stressed that his ambition is driven by concern for national challenges rather than personal ambition for office.

“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 exit, Obi maintained that he still believes in Nigeria’s potential, calling for leadership anchored on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity.