As expected, the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi has announced his departure from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general election.
Obi in a statement issued Sunday cited a worsening political climate marked by internal crises, external interference, and growing hostility within party structures.
He described Nigeria’s political space as increasingly toxic, where intimidation, insecurity, and persistent scrutiny have become the norm.
Obi lamented that systems meant to protect citizens now often work against them, while individuals striving for sincere service face mounting pressure both publicly and privately.
Clarifying his decision, Obi stated that his exit was not due to any personal grievances with party leaders, including former Senate President David Mark or former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, both of whom he said he continues to respect.
Instead, he pointed to a pattern of internal division, legal disputes, and what he described as the infiltration of destabilising forces—similar to challenges he previously encountered in the Labour Party.
Obi also decried a broader societal trend where integrity, humility, and adherence to due process are often misinterpreted as weakness.
He expressed concern that genuine efforts toward nation-building are increasingly undermined by suspicion, exclusion, and political maneuvering focused more on control than service.
Despite his departure, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s progress, emphasising that his primary concern remains the welfare of citizens—particularly issues of insecurity, poverty, and displacement.
He stressed that his ambition is not driven by the pursuit of political office, but by a desire to see a just, compassionate, and functional society.