Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has announced his defection from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), citing the worsening condition of the country and the need for urgent national rescue.
Obi disclosed that he joined the NDC alongside former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, stating that the move was driven by a shared commitment to building a “new Nigeria” anchored on justice, competence, accountability, and compassion for citizens.
“The condition of our nation and the urgent need to rescue Nigeria informed my decision, stressing that his defection was not motivated by anger, personal ambition, or political convenience, but by deep reflection on the country’s trajectory. Obi said,
He lamented the growing economic and social challenges facing Nigerians, including rising poverty, widespread hunger, business failures, and increasing insecurity, noting that many citizens especially young people are losing hope in the system.
Obi also cited persistent internal crises and what he described as “orchestrated litigation” within political parties as a major reason for leaving the ADC, similar to his earlier exit from the Labour Party. According to him, such developments are deliberately designed to sideline credible participation in the electoral process.
Despite his departure, Obi expressed appreciation to the ADC leadership, particularly its National Chairman, David Mark, for the opportunity to serve, as well as to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his leadership and support.
He, however, raised concerns over what he described as the growing interference in opposition politics, warning that democracy must not be weaponised 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, adding that weakening opposition parties could undermine democratic balance and ultimately harm Nigerians,” he said.
Obi maintained that his move to the NDC represents a continuation not a departure from his long-held values of people-centered leadership, responsible governance, and institutional independence.
He called on Nigerians across political, ethnic, and religious divides to unite in the interest of national survival, emphasizing that the country’s challenges require collective action beyond individual ambitions or party lines.
Addressing citizens, particularly youths and women, Obi commended their resilience amid hardship and urged them not to lose faith in the nation.
“Nations do not change because people surrender to hopelessness; they change because people continue to believe, continue to sacrifice, and continue to stand for what is right,” he said.