Real Reason I Left ADC for NDC — Peter Obi

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has explained his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and his decision to join the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) alongside former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, saying the move followed careful reflection on Nigeria’s political and economic situation.

In a post shared on X on Monday, Obi said his decision was not driven by personal ambition, anger, or convenience, but by what he described as the urgency to address the country’s worsening condition.

He wrote:

“Yesterday, I formally joined the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), alongside my dear brother, Engr. Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, with one clear purpose: to continue the struggle for a new Nigeria built on justice, competence, accountability, and compassion for the ordinary Nigerian.”

“This decision was not made out of anger, personal ambition, or convenience. It came after deep reflection on the present condition of our nation and the urgent need to rescue Nigeria from the dangerous path it is currently heading.”

Obi stressed that his political involvement has always been guided by public interest rather than personal gain, adding that worsening economic hardship and declining living standards influenced his position.

He said:

“It must be about the people, especially the millions of Nigerians who today can no longer afford necessities, whose businesses are collapsing, whose children are losing hope, and whose future is becoming increasingly uncertain.”

Explaining his exit from ADC, Obi pointed to what he described as internal crises and prolonged legal disputes that affected participation within the party. He also acknowledged the leadership of ADC, including chairman David Mark, and expressed appreciation for past collaborations.

He added:

“I left the ADC for the same reason I left the Labour Party: the severe, orchestrated litigation and internal crises deliberately designed to ensure that I, alongside many other notable individuals, do not effectively participate in the electoral process.”

On Nigeria’s broader political environment, Obi cautioned against weakening opposition structures through internal instability and unresolved disputes, warning that democracy suffers when citizens are denied credible alternatives.

He further stated:

“Democracy must never become a weapon against the people. A healthy democracy thrives on strong institutions, credible alternatives, and the freedom of citizens to make choices without intimidation, manipulation, or fear.”

Addressing national conditions, Obi highlighted rising poverty, insecurity, and economic distress, urging leadership that prioritises competence and accountability over political division.

He maintained that his move to the NDC represents continuity of his political mission rather than a shift in ideology, insisting that collaboration across political and regional lines remains essential for national recovery.