ABUJA/Nigeria: Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has opened up on his recent political decisions and personal struggles, declaring that his overriding ambition remains the emergence of a just and functional Nigeria rather than the pursuit of public office.
In a deeply reflective statement released after a church service, Obi painted a sobering picture of Nigeria’s political environment, describing it as increasingly hostile, divisive and discouraging for individuals committed to sincere service and nation-building.
He said the current system has become “toxic,” marked by intimidation, insecurity and persistent scrutiny, adding that those who genuinely seek to serve are often subjected to undue pressure, both publicly and privately.
Obi also spoke candidly about the emotional toll of political engagement, noting that many leaders endure silent personal struggles while striving to make meaningful contributions under difficult circumstances.
According to him, the situation is compounded when allies and associates, expected to provide support, become sources of criticism and hostility.
“Many people do not truly understand the silent pains some of us carry daily—the private struggles and quiet battles we face while trying to serve sincerely,” he stated.
Clarifying his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Obi dismissed speculation of personal grievances with party leaders, including former Senate President David Mark and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, maintaining that he continues to hold them in high regard.
Rather, he attributed his exit to what he described as a recurring pattern of internal crises, legal disputes and divisive politics, similar to challenges he faced during his time in the Labour Party.
“The same forces that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party now appear to be finding their way into the ADC,” he said, expressing concern over what he termed a political culture driven by control and exclusion rather than service and national interest.
Obi lamented what he described as a broader societal decline in values, where humility is often mistaken for weakness and integrity undervalued, even as he reiterated his long-held belief that leadership should be anchored on service, sacrifice and compassion.
“I have never used position or privilege to oppress others. Leadership, to me, has always been about helping others rise,” he noted.
The former Anambra State governor further stressed that his political journey is not driven by personal ambition, insisting that he is not desperate to occupy any political office.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President or Senate President. I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people are safe, where children can go to school without fear, and where citizens do not go to bed hungry,” he declared.
He highlighted pressing national concerns, including insecurity, poverty and displacement, urging a shift in focus from political infighting to addressing the real challenges confronting Nigerians.
Despite the challenges, Obi expressed optimism about the country’s future, affirming his commitment to continue advocating for responsible leadership, justice and equal opportunity.
“I remain resolute. Nigeria can still become a country driven by competence, justice and compassion,” he said, reiterating his popular mantra: “A new Nigeria is possible.”
Political observers say Obi’s statement underscores growing frustration within opposition circles and reflects broader concerns about the state of Nigeria’s democratic space, as debates around governance, accountability and leadership continue to dominate national discourse.
