Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has explained the reasons behind his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing internal crises and the urgent need to address Nigeria’s worsening situation.
The former Anambra State governor on his X handle on Monday said his exit from the party was driven by ‘deep reflection’ on the state of the nation and the need to reposition himself to contribute more effectively to national progress.
‘The condition of our nation and the urgent need to rescue Nigeria informed my decision to leave ADC’, Obi said.
He noted that his move was not motivated by personal ambition or dissatisfaction, but by a commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.
‘This decision was not made out of anger, personal ambition, or convenience. It came after deep reflection on the present condition of our nation and the urgent need to rescue Nigeria from the dangerous path it is currently heading’, he added.
Obi also pointed to persistent internal disputes and legal battles within the party as a major factor in his departure, drawing parallels with his earlier exit from the Labour Party.
‘I left the ADC for the same reason I left the Labour Party: the severe, orchestrated litigation and internal crises deliberately designed to ensure that I… do not effectively participate in the electoral process’, he stated.
Despite leaving, Obi expressed appreciation to the ADC leadership, particularly former Senate President David Mark, for the opportunity to serve within the party.
He also acknowledged the support of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other party leaders. Obi warned against actions that could weaken Nigeria’s democratic system, urging authorities to avoid encouraging divisions within political parties.
‘Democracy must never become a weapon against the people… Opposition parties must not be weakened or destroyed, because when democracy loses balance, the people ultimately suffer’, he said.
He described Nigeria as being in a difficult phase, marked by rising poverty, insecurity, and economic hardship, stressing the need for competent and compassionate leadership.
‘Nigeria today is passing through one of the most difficult periods in its history. Poverty is rising. Hunger is widespread. Insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods’, Obi noted.
The former presidential candidate reaffirmed his commitment to working with Nigerians across political and social lines to build a better country.
‘The task before us is bigger than any individual or political party. It is about the future of our children and the survival of our dear nation’, he said.
