Award-winning author, Chimamanda Adichie, says her support for 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, is rooted in his humility and genuine intentions for Nigeria.
Adichie, who spoke in an interview on Channels Television, stated that Obi is not desperate for power, like many other politicians in the country.
“He doesn’t need to be president; he wants to be because he cares about Nigeria, but he doesn’t need to be. That is a very important distinction,” the novelist said.
“There are people who are desperate to become president, not because they have any good intentions for the country, but because of their egos.”
Adichie further argued that her support for the ex-Anambra State governor is “rooted in my love for this country” and the belief that Nigeria can be better with the right leadership.
The writer praised the politician’s accountability record which she said is one of the virtues that distinguishes him from other politicians.
“Peter Obi is not a person who expects you to thank him for doing his job as a leader, because to him it’s his job,” she said.
“There’s a sense, I think, in Peter Obi that he’s accountable to the people. He doesn’t think that somehow, he will lord it over people.”
Adichie described Obi as “one of the simplest men I have ever known”, saying he has remained consistent for over 15 years.
“The person I knew 15 years ago is still the same in terms of his values,” she said.
“He is genuine, consistent, and curious — qualities that I believe are essential in a leader.”
Asked how she would feel if Obi is not on the ballot in 2027, Adichie declined comment.
Adichie, who was a prominent supporter of Obi during the 2023 presidential election, had expressed her endorsement through social media posts, a birthday tribute, and an official video.
In 2022, the novelist described the former governor as “my big bro” and said she believed in his vision for the country.
