“Toxic politics”: Peter Obi confirms exit from ADC amid rising tensions

Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has confirmed that he has exited the African Democratic Congress (ADC), attributing his decision to worsening internal crises and an increasingly hostile political environment.

Obi made this known in a personal statement shared on his X platform on Sunday, where he reflected on what he described as the “toxic” nature of Nigeria’s political landscape and the pressures faced by public figures.
He explained that his departure was not driven by any personal disagreement with key party leaders, including the National Chairman, David Mark, or former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, noting that he still holds them in high regard.
According to Obi, his decision was influenced by persistent internal conflicts and external pressures, which he said were beginning to resemble the challenges he previously encountered in the Labour Party.
“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,” he stated.
He pointed to ongoing court cases, internal divisions, and a growing atmosphere of suspicion within the party, adding that these issues were diverting attention from addressing the country’s pressing challenges.
Obi also criticized what he described as a political culture where integrity, humility, and service are often mistaken for weakness. He noted that individuals acting in good faith frequently face criticism and misrepresentation.
“Even within spaces where one labours sincerely, one is sometimes treated like an outsider,” he said, adding that he and his team had often been unfairly blamed despite their contributions.
The former Anambra State governor emphasized that his political ambition is not driven by a desire for power, but by a commitment to building a just and functional society.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that works for all,” he said.
Despite leaving the ADC, Obi reaffirmed his dedication to Nigeria’s progress, expressing optimism that the country can still achieve leadership rooted in justice, compassion, and equal opportunity.
“A new Nigeria is possible,” he concluded.