Obi raises alarm over divisions as ADC rallies opposition forces

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has warned that Nigeria is becoming increasingly divided and drifting towards economic and security challenges, urging citizens and political leaders to act to reverse the trend.

Mr Obi spoke in Abuja on Tuesday at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) national convention, where opposition figures gathered amid ongoing political realignments.

In his address, the former Anambra governor stressed the need for national unity, accusing the current administration of worsening divisions across the country.

“We need to work as a united Nigeria. For the sake of Nigeria, the country is so divided; we need unity. The present government has ensured that it remains more divided,” he said.

He warned that continued divisions could aggravate the country’s security situation. Citing global terrorism rankings, Mr Obi said Nigeria’s position has worsened in recent years, describing the trend as a sign of growing insecurity.

“If this trajectory continues, in a few years, Nigeria could rank among the worst-affected countries,” he said.

On the economy, Mr Obi said poverty levels have increased, with more Nigerians facing hardship. He also questioned the management of public finances, particularly following the removal of fuel subsidy.

According to him, while the policy was presented as a way to reduce borrowing and free up funds for development, Nigeria’s debt has continued to rise significantly—from about ₦87 trillion at the end of the previous administration to nearly ₦200 trillion.

He further alleged that the government is struggling to meet financial obligations, including payments to contractors, and criticised what he described as weak implementation of the 2025 budget.

“We have huge debts, and we have borrowed more, and we are heading to disaster. The reason why I use these short figures is to show you we are drifting,” he said.

Mr Obi called for collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to act in the interest of future generations.

“We must now sacrifice for the sake of our children. If we don’t do anything, what is happening will take revenge on us and our children,” he said.

Also speaking was former national chairman of the ADC, Ralph Nwosu, who traced the party’s development and its efforts to build a broad coalition.

Mr Nwosu recalled the party’s early challenges, including its registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that it has grown into a platform attracting key political actors.

He said the party had consistently prioritised national interest and opened its structure to alliances to strengthen opposition politics. According to him, the current coalition efforts reflect years of groundwork to build a credible alternative.

Mr Nwosu also welcomed the emergence of former Senate President David Mark as the party’s national chairman, describing it as significant for the party’s direction.

He commended political figures present at the convention, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, for their roles in strengthening the coalition.

In his remarks, Mr Mark said the party would not yield to political pressure, stressing its commitment to democratic principles.

“We have made it clear that in an ever-shrinking democratic space, the ADC will not bow, will not be cowed, and we will not retreat,” he said.

He added that strong political movements are often shaped in difficult periods when citizens demand accountability and effective leadership.

“We will not surrender because what is at stake is not just the opposition, but the very survival of democracy in Nigeria,” he said.

Mr Mark noted that attempts to weaken the party had strengthened its internal cohesion and expanded its alliances, positioning it as an alternative platform.

He said the party’s objective goes beyond winning power, adding that it is committed to demonstrating that democracy can deliver development and improve citizens’ welfare.

The former senate president called on opposition leaders across party lines to work together, describing Nigeria’s current challenges as requiring a collective response beyond partisan interests.

He also urged newly elected party officials to prioritise accountability, inclusiveness and service, noting that leadership must reflect unity and commitment to national goals.

Mr Mark reiterated that the party’s core principles remain transparency, accountability and participation, adding that no member would be above its constitution.

He assured Nigerians that the ADC would focus on policies to improve living standards and safeguard citizens’ welfare.