According to findings by Daily Trust, internal disagreements and unresolved tensions within the party created an uncomfortable environment for both presidential hopefuls, making continued participation difficult.
Obi and Kwankwaso had earlier aligned with the ADC after it was adopted as a coalition platform by opposition figures seeking to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
However, sources claimed that just days after a Supreme Court ruling that affirmed the leadership structure of the party but referred certain matters back to a lower court, both politicians began to distance themselves from the ADC, reportedly questioning its direction for their presidential ambitions.
Zoning Dispute Sparks Concern
Party insiders revealed that both Obi and Kwankwaso were unsettled by the ADC’s lack of clarity on zoning its presidential ticket.
They were also said to be uncomfortable with the perception that the party was drifting without a clear consensus, while preparations for the 2027 elections continued as though zoning was not an issue.
Beyond zoning, some members allegedly expressed concern that the party was increasingly being associated with a particular aspirant, with little effort made to address the growing perception.
A source within the party said, “The impression that ADC belonged to certain individuals while others were just late entrants did not go down well with some stakeholders.”
Obi Expresses Frustration
Obi appeared to echo similar concerns in a recent statement where he spoke about feeling sidelined despite his contributions.
He said, “Even within spaces where one labours sincerely, one can sometimes be treated like an outsider in one’s own home. Honest contribution begins to feel like something tolerated rather than appreciated.”
He added that even after stepping away to avoid conflict, individuals are still subjected to criticism and misrepresentation.
“Toxic Political Environment”
The former presidential candidate also described the broader political environment as emotionally draining and increasingly hostile for those who seek to serve sincerely.
He noted, “Many people do not understand the silent struggles some of us go through daily, including emotional burdens and constant pressure in difficult circumstances.”
Obi further lamented what he described as rising intolerance, insecurity, and discouragement within the political space, saying even expected allies sometimes become sources of pressure rather than support.
According to him, some individuals who publicly associate with him privately distance themselves or join in criticism, making the environment even more difficult.