Obi Defects To NDC, Cites Urgent Need To Rescue Nigeria
Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has formally announced his defection from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), citing the worsening condition of the nation and the urgent need for a credible platform to drive meaningful change.
Obi made the announcement on Monday, revealing that he joined the NDC alongside former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. He stated that their decision was driven by a shared commitment to building a new Nigeria anchored on justice, competence, accountability, and compassion for citizens.
According to him, the move was not motivated by personal ambition or dissatisfaction, but by a careful assessment of Nigeria’s current challenges and the necessity to align with a political platform capable of addressing them effectively.
“The condition of our nation and the urgent need to rescue Nigeria informed my decision,” Obi said, emphasizing that politics should prioritize the welfare of citizens over individual interests.
Reflecting on his departure from both the ADC and the Labour Party, Obi alleged that persistent internal crises and legal disputes within the parties hindered his ability, and that of others, to participate meaningfully in the democratic process.
He, however, expressed appreciation to key figures in the ADC, including former Senate President and party chairman, David Mark, for their leadership and support. He also acknowledged former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a respected leader.
Obi used the opportunity to call on the Federal Government to refrain from actions that could destabilize opposition parties, warning that the manipulation of political structures through litigation and internal discord poses a threat to democratic balance.
“A healthy democracy thrives on strong institutions and credible opposition,” he stated, adding that weakening alternative political voices ultimately undermines the will of the people.
He painted a grim picture of the nation’s current state, highlighting rising poverty, widespread hunger, insecurity, and declining economic activity. Obi noted that many Nigerians, particularly young people, are increasingly losing faith in the system.
“At a time like this, leadership must be driven by competence, character, and compassion—not propaganda or division,” he added.
Reaffirming his commitment to national development, Obi said his move to the NDC represents a continuation of his long-standing mission to promote responsible governance, institutional independence, and inclusive growth.
He urged Nigerians, especially youths and women, to remain hopeful and engaged in the democratic process, stressing that meaningful change requires collective effort and sustained belief in the country’s potential.
“A new Nigeria is still possible,” he concluded.
