Peter Obi Wants to Be President Because He Cares About Nigeria, Not for Personal Gain - Chimamanda Adichie

 

Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has once again shown her support for Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), and one of the most consistent figures in Nigerian politics. Adichie, speaking in an interview on Channels Television, highlighted a significant difference between Obi and many other politicians. According to her, Obi’s ambition is not driven by the need for power or personal accolades but by a genuine concern for the well-being of Nigeria and its people.

Adichie, a writer whose voice is often heard on national issues, emphasized that Peter Obi does not need to be the president of Nigeria. Rather, he aspires to the position because of his deep-rooted commitment to serving the country. She noted, “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.” This sentiment starkly contrasts with other politicians who, as Adichie pointed out, pursue the presidency driven by egos or personal gain rather than a desire to improve the nation.

For Adichie, this distinction between the motivations of Peter Obi and other political leaders is a cornerstone of her support for the former Anambra State governor. She noted that Obi's approach to leadership, rooted in humility and responsibility, sets him apart from the typical Nigerian politician. According to the award-winning novelist, Obi’s sense of duty and accountability is rare in a system where many view leadership as an avenue for power and personal enrichment. “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 remarked during the interview.

Adichie’s endorsement of Obi is deeply tied to her belief in Nigeria's potential to progress with the right leadership. She underlined that her support for Obi is not about personality or partisanship but a reflection of her love for Nigeria and the kind of leadership that can take it toward a more prosperous future. This belief was particularly evident in her praise for Obi’s simplicity, consistency, and values over the years. Adichie recalled how Obi, even after 15 years, had remained the same man in terms of values, humility, and leadership style.

Adichie, known for her outspokenness on political and social issues, elaborated on the integrity and authenticity she saw in Obi. She said, “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. 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.” This rare combination of accountability, simplicity, and authenticity is what Adichie believes is crucial in Nigeria’s current political landscape.

The celebrated author also reflected on her longstanding relationship with Obi, describing him as “one of the simplest men I have ever known.” Her perspective on Obi goes beyond politics and into personal interactions that, in her view, attest to his sincerity and character. Adichie’s admiration for Obi is rooted not just in his political actions but in his consistent values, which have remained unshaken despite the challenges of Nigerian politics.

Despite her unwavering support for Obi’s vision for Nigeria, Adichie did not provide a direct response when asked about the possibility of him not being on the ballot in the upcoming 2027 elections. Her comment indicated that, while she deeply believes in Obi’s potential, the future of Nigerian politics remains uncertain. However, her passion for seeing Nigeria thrive remains unwavering, and she believes that if Nigeria is to move forward, leaders like Obi who value humility and service are essential.

Throughout the 2023 election period, Adichie’s public support for Obi was clear. From her heartfelt tributes and social media posts to her involvement in official campaign activities, the novelist became one of Obi’s most visible backers. Adichie even went as far as penning an open letter to U.S. President Joe Biden, questioning the credibility of the 2023 elections and alleging that the process was tainted by irregularities that were overlooked by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Her commitment to Obi’s cause continued after the elections, as she appeared at the presidential election tribunal in Abuja to stand in solidarity with Obi as he sought to challenge the results.

Adichie’s backing of Obi has sparked debate, especially given the outcome of the 2023 presidential election, which saw Bola Tinubu emerge victorious. Nevertheless, Adichie remains undeterred in her conviction that Nigeria deserves better leadership and that Obi’s commitment to service is key to achieving that future.

As the nation looks ahead to the 2027 elections, the possibility of Obi’s candidacy remains a topic of discussion. However, what is clear is that Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s support for him is not a mere endorsement of a political figure but a call for a shift in how Nigeria is led, a shift toward service, responsibility, and humility. With leaders like Peter Obi, Adichie believes that Nigeria’s future could be one of hope and transformation.