Obi Quits ADC, Alleges State-Backed Crisis in Opposition Parties
…Rumour of NDC Move Yet Unconfirmed
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has announced his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing persistent internal crises and what he described as systemic interference by the Nigerian state in opposition politics.
Obi disclosed his decision in a statement shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, expressing deep concern over what he termed a “toxic political environment” that continues to undermine credible platforms for national development.
His resignation comes on the heels of a recent ruling by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which referred the lingering leadership dispute within the ADC to the Federal High Court. Although the apex court vacated an earlier status quo antebellum order against the party’s leadership under David Mark, political observers have described the development as only a temporary reprieve in the party’s protracted crisis.
In his statement, Obi clarified that his exit from the ADC was not due to any personal grievances against key figures in the party, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or the National Chairman, David Mark. He maintained that he holds both leaders in high regard.
Rather, the former Anambra State governor attributed his decision to what he described as recurring patterns of instability allegedly orchestrated within opposition parties by state actors.
“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, pointing to ongoing litigations, internal divisions, and an atmosphere of suspicion within the party.
He lamented that such distractions have continued to derail meaningful political engagement, shifting focus away from pressing national challenges to what he called “politics built more on control and exclusion than on service and nation-building.”
Obi further decried the broader socio-political climate in the country, describing it as increasingly hostile to integrity and selfless leadership. According to him, individuals who strive to uphold transparency, humility, and accountability are often misunderstood and unfairly criticised.
“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 noted, adding that the system frequently discourages genuine efforts at reform and equitable governance.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Obi spoke of the emotional and psychological toll of navigating Nigeria’s political landscape, emphasising that even within trusted circles, loyalty and solidarity are not always guaranteed.
Despite his departure from the ADC, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to the Nigerian project, stressing that his aspiration is not driven by personal ambition for political office but by a desire to see a more just and functional society.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that can console a grieving mother, a country where citizens feel safe, and where no one goes to bed hungry,” he declared.
The development marks Obi’s second major political exit in recent times, following his earlier departure from the Labour Party under similarly contentious circumstances.
His resignation now raises fresh questions about the stability and viability of opposition coalitions ahead of future electoral cycles, as well as the broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic consolidation.
Although there is a strong rumour of Obi’s move to join another opposition platform, Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, alongside his political ally, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, he is yet to confirm the stand.
As of press time, the ADC leadership had yet to issue an official response to Obi’s resignation.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
