Award-winning writer and public thinker Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has explained why she strongly supports Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party. She praised his humility, values, and genuine concern for the future of Nigeria.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Adichie said Obi is not like most politicians. According to her, he wants to lead not for personal gain but because he truly cares about the country. She said there’s a big difference between needing power and wanting it to serve others. In her words, Peter Obi doesn’t need to be president, but he desires the role because he wants Nigeria to improve.
She criticized the way some people chase political positions just to satisfy their egos, not because they have any real plans to make the country better. In her view, Obi stands out because his interest in the presidency comes from a place of service, not selfish ambition.
Adichie said her support for Obi is based on her love for Nigeria and the hope that strong, honest leadership can move the country forward. She described Obi as someone who leads with humility and responsibility. Unlike many politicians, he doesn’t expect praise for doing his job — he simply does what is expected of a leader.
She explained that Obi sees leadership as a duty to the people, not a tool for control or power. He believes in accountability and doesn’t view his position as something to lord over others.
Adichie went on to describe Obi as one of the simplest and most genuine people she has ever met. She said his values have not changed in over 15 years, showing his consistency and sincerity. She highlighted his curiosity, humility, and strong principles as qualities that make him a trustworthy leader.
When asked if she would be disappointed if Obi doesn’t contest in the 2027 election, Adichie chose not to comment.
During the 2023 presidential race, Adichie was a vocal supporter of Peter Obi. She posted about him on social media, celebrated his birthday with a heartfelt message, and appeared in one of his campaign videos. Back in 2022, she publicly called him “my big bro” and said she believed in the future he envisioned for Nigeria.
After the election, which ended in the victory of President Bola Tinubu, Adichie wrote an open letter to U.S. President Joe Biden. In the letter, she raised concerns about the credibility of the election, accusing Nigeria’s electoral commission of overlooking serious irregularities.
She also attended a tribunal session in Abuja to show her support for Obi as he challenged the election results in court.
