Former presidential candidate Obi, has spoken about his recent political experiences, describing frustration with Nigeria’s political environment and what he called persistent internal and external pressures within opposition politics.
He said many Nigerians are quietly enduring hardship and living under conditions marked by insecurity, intimidation, and discouragement.
“Many people do not truly understand the silent pains some of us carry daily the private struggles, emotional burdens, and quiet battles we face while trying to survive and serve sincerely in difficult circumstances.”
Obi also raised concern about a lack of solidarity within political circles, saying some allies who publicly associate with him privately distance themselves or contribute to criticism.
He argued that humility is often misunderstood in Nigeria.
“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.”
On his political journey, Obi clarified that his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was not due to personal issues with party leaders, including former Senate President David Mark or former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“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.”
He instead pointed to recurring internal conflicts, legal battles, and political interference within opposition parties, which he said mirror earlier challenges he experienced in the Labour Party.
Obi said such issues distract from governance-focused politics and national development.
He further questioned why integrity and prudent leadership are often criticised in Nigeria.
“Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country? Why is integrity not valued?”
He added that his political motivation is not personal ambition.
“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 Nigeria where people will not live in IDP camps but in their homes.”
Despite his concerns, Obi maintained optimism about Nigeria’s future.
“I firmly believe that Nigeria can still become a country with competent leadership based on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity for all. A new Nigeria is possible.”