Peter Obi Not Desperate To Be President Like Some Politicians – Chimamanda Adichie

Renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has opened up about why she supports Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate.

In an interview with Channels Television, Chimamanda Adichie said what draws her to Peter Obi is his humility and genuine commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

Adichie said Obi stands out from other politicians because he isn’t chasing power out of personal ambition.

“He (Obi) doesn’t need to be president. He wants to be because he cares about Nigeria, but he doesn’t need to be. And that is a very important distinction.

“There are people who are desperate to become president, not because they have any good intentions for the country, but because of their egos,” she said.

[irp]

According to her, many politicians seek office just for power’s sake, not because they have good plans for the country.

She said her support for Obi is “rooted in my love for this country” and a strong belief that the country can do better with honest and capable leadership.

“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,” Adichie 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.”

[irp]

Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, Adichie described Obi as “one of the simplest men I have ever known.

“The person I knew 15 years ago is still the same in terms of his values. He is genuine, consistent, and curious—qualities that I believe are essential in a leader,” she added.

When asked how she would feel if Obi doesn’t run in the 2027 presidential election, Adichie chose not to comment.

“I don’t want to talk in specifics about how I will feel if he’s not the presidential candidate. I don’t want to think about that yet because we don’t know what will happen,” she said.

KanyiDaily recalls that during the 2023 election campaign, Chimamanda Adichie was a vocal supporter of Peter Obi.

[irp]