Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Gregory Obi, has opened up on the circumstances surrounding his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing Nigeria’s political environment as “increasingly toxic” and hostile to sincere leadership.
In a reflective statement released on Sunday morning after church, Obi spoke candidly about the personal and political pressures he faces, insisting his decision to leave the ADC was not driven by personal grievances against party leaders.
“Let me state clearly: my decision to leave the ADC is not because our highly respected Chairman, Senator David Mark, treated me badly, nor because my leader and elder brother, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, or any other respected leaders did anything personally wrong to me. I will continue to respect them,” he said.
Instead, Obi pointed to what he described as systemic challenges and recurring political interference.
“However, 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, with endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion, and division,” he stated.
He lamented that Nigeria has become a difficult environment for genuine service, marked by intimidation, insecurity, and constant scrutiny.
“We now live in an environment that has become increasingly toxic, where the very system that should protect and create opportunities for decent living often works against the people—a society where intimidation, insecurity, endless scrutiny, and discouragement have become normal,” Obi said.
The former presidential candidate also decried what he described as a culture that punishes integrity and misinterprets humility.
“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.
Reflecting on his leadership philosophy, Obi stressed his commitment to service and fairness.
“Personally, I have never looked down on anyone except to uplift them. I have never used privilege, position, or resources to oppress others, intimidate the weak, or make people feel small. To me, leadership has always been about service, sacrifice, and helping others rise,” he said.
He also spoke about the emotional toll of political life, revealing that even allies sometimes contribute to the pressures faced by public figures.
“More painful is when some of those you associate with… become part of the pressure you face. Some who publicly identify with you privately distance themselves or join in unfair criticism,” he added.
Obi said he often questions why integrity and prudent governance are misunderstood in Nigeria.
“There are moments I ask God in prayer: Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country? Why is integrity not valued?” he queried.
On his political ambition, Obi clarified that his focus is not on holding office but on improving the lives of Nigerians.
“Let me assure all that I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed… I am desperate for a country where Nigerian citizens do not go to bed hungry,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Obi reaffirmed his belief in Nigeria’s potential.
“Yet, despite everything, I remain resolute. I firmly believe that Nigeria can still become a country with competent leadership based on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity for all,” he stated.
He concluded with his signature message of hope: “A new Nigeria is possible.”
