The former Anambra State governor also expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of solidarity even among associates.
By Deborah Hassan
365Daily – Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was not borne out of personal grievances but driven by concerns over what he described as a “toxic” political environment and deepening systemic challenges in the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday morning, Obi spoke of the “silent pains” and private struggles faced by individuals striving to serve sincerely in Nigeria’s difficult political space, noting that the system has increasingly become hostile to those committed to principled leadership.
He lamented that the environment is now characterised by intimidation, insecurity, and persistent scrutiny, where individuals working in good faith are often discouraged rather than supported.
The former Anambra State governor also expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of solidarity even among associates, stating that some individuals who publicly align with one’s cause often distance themselves or engage in unfair criticism behind the scenes.
“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 said, warning that values such as equality and fairness are increasingly undermined by entrenched interests tied to status, tribe, and power.
Obi maintained that his style of leadership has always been anchored on service, stressing that he has never used his position or privilege to oppress others but rather to uplift them.
Clarifying the circumstances surrounding his exit from the ADC, he said it was not due to any ill-treatment by the party’s leadership, including its National Chairman, David Mark, or former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as respected leaders.
According to him, however, the same patterns of crisis and division that affected the Labour Party Nigeria appear to be emerging within the ADC, citing internal disputes, court cases, and what he termed politics driven by control and exclusion rather than national development.
He further noted that even within political spaces where one contributes diligently, individuals can be treated as outsiders and unfairly blamed for broader challenges, adding that efforts to step aside for peace are often met with continued attacks and character questioning.
Obi questioned the societal values that, in his view, reward negative conduct while undermining integrity and discipline. He specifically decried a culture where prudent management of public resources is misinterpreted and where adherence to the rule of law is seen as weakness.
The former governor reiterated that his political ambition is not driven by a desire for office but by a commitment to addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including insecurity, poverty, and displacement.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President,” he said, adding that his priority is to see a country where citizens can live safely, access basic needs, and regain dignity.
Despite the challenges, Obi expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, affirming his belief that the country can achieve competent leadership built on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity.