Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has said his political ambition is driven not by a quest for power but by a deep desire to see Nigeria work for its citizens.
Obi stated this in a reflective message shared on Monday, where he opened up on his recent exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the personal and political pressures he has faced.
Addressing Nigerians, the former Anambra State governor described the country’s political environment as increasingly toxic, lamenting that intimidation, insecurity, and systemic discouragement have become defining features of public life.
“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,” he said.
Obi noted that beyond public scrutiny, individuals in leadership often endure silent personal struggles and emotional burdens while striving to serve sincerely.
He also decried what he termed a culture where humility and compassion are misinterpreted as weakness, while integrity and prudent management of public resources are often wrongly criticised.
“In our society, humility is mistaken for weakness, respect is seen as a lack of courage, and compassion is treated as foolishness,” he added.
Speaking on his decision to leave the ADC, Obi clarified that his exit was not due to any personal disagreement with party leaders, including former Senate President David Mark and ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whom he said he continues to respect.
Rather, he attributed his decision to what he described as recurring systemic challenges, including internal crises, legal battles, and divisions within political parties, issues he said have continued to distract from addressing Nigeria’s core problems.
According to him, the same pressures that contributed to his departure from the Labour Party appear to be re-emerging in the ADC, creating an environment unconducive for meaningful political engagement.
Obi further lamented that even within political circles where one labours sincerely, individuals are sometimes treated as outsiders and unfairly blamed for broader systemic failures.
Despite these challenges, he maintained that his commitment to national development remains unwavering.
“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 works,” he stated.
He emphasised his desire for a Nigeria where citizens feel safe, where families are not torn apart by insecurity, and where basic needs such as food, education, and healthcare are accessible to all.
Obi expressed concern over the plight of victims of insecurity, including displaced persons and families affected by kidnappings and violence, stressing the need for compassionate and people-centred leadership.
While acknowledging the criticisms and attacks directed at him, he said he remains resolute in his belief that Nigeria can still achieve progress through competent leadership anchored on justice, equity, and service.
“A new Nigeria is possible,” he affirmed.
