Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has declared that he is not driven by desperation for political office, lamenting that acts of integrity and good governance are often misinterpreted as wrongdoing in Nigeria.
Obi said he remains concerned about what he described as a toxic political and social environment where sincerity is frequently misunderstood, and those striving to do the right thing face undue criticism and pressure.
The former governor of Anambra State said this in a statement announcing his resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
He noted that many Nigerians endure silent struggles daily while attempting to serve with honesty in difficult circumstances, adding that the system meant to protect citizens and create opportunities often works against them.
Obi also decried a culture where humility is mistaken for weakness, respect is seen as a lack of courage, and compassion is treated as foolishness, stressing that such attitudes continue to undermine genuine leadership.
Obi maintained that his approach to leadership has always been rooted in service, sacrifice, and fairness, insisting that he has never used his position or resources to oppress others or advance personal interests at the expense of the people.
He stated: “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—a system where treating people equally is questioned simply because you refuse to worship status, tribe, class, or power.
“Personally, I have never looked down on anyone except to uplift them. I have never used privilege, position, or resources to oppress others, intimidate the weak, or make people feel small. To me, leadership has always been about service, sacrifice, and helping others rise.”
Obi clarified that his exit from the ADC was not due to personal grievances with party leaders, including former Senate President David Mark and ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, whom he said he continues to respect.
He, however, expressed concern over recurring internal crises, legal disputes, and divisions within political parties, which he said distract from addressing pressing national challenges.
Obi emphasised that his ambition is not centred on occupying positions such as President, Vice President, or Senate President, but on building a country where citizens feel safe, secure, and economically stable.
Obi said: “There are moments I ask God in prayer: Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country? Why is integrity not valued? Why is the prudent management of resources, especially when invested in critical areas like education and healthcare, wrongly labelled as stinginess? Why are humility and obedience to the rule of law often taken to be weakness rather than discipline?
“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 can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed while going to school or work.
“I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people will not live in IDP camps but in their homes. I am desperate for a country where Nigerian citizens do not go to bed hungry, not knowing where their next meal will come from.”
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