Award-winning Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has reiterated her support for Peter Obi, citing his selfless leadership, humility, and genuine commitment to Nigeria’s development as the foundation of her backing.
Speaking on Amazing Africans, a programme on Channels Television aired Monday, Adichie emphasized that Obi’s ambition to lead the country stems not from a thirst for power, but from a deep care for the nation.
“Peter Obi doesn’t need to be president he wants to be, because he cares about Nigeria. That’s an important distinction,” Adichie explained. “There are people who desperately want power, not to serve, but to feed their egos. He is not one of them.”
The acclaimed novelist described Obi, former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, as a rare kind of politician genuine, consistent, and driven by values rather than ambition.
“My support is rooted in my love for this country,” Adichie said, “and in the belief that, with the right leader, Nigeria can be much better than it is.”
She praised Obi’s humility and people-first approach, describing him as someone who sees leadership as service rather than an entitlement.
“Peter Obi doesn’t expect gratitude for doing his job. He believes accountability to the people is part of leadership. He’s not looking to dominate—he wants to serve.”
Adichie also reflected on their long-standing relationship, noting that despite his rising profile, Obi has remained grounded.
“The man I knew 15 years ago is the same today when it comes to values. He is genuine, curious, and consistent qualities every good leader should have,” she said.
While she avoided speculating about Obi’s future candidacy, Adichie maintained that her support would continue to be anchored in her hopes for a better Nigeria.
“I don’t want to talk about how I’ll feel if he’s not a candidate again. We don’t know what the future holds,” she said.
During Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election, Adichie was a vocal supporter of Obi, sharing her endorsement across social media and even penning a heartfelt birthday tribute in which she called him “my big bro.”
Following Obi’s third-place finish in the 2023 race behind President Bola Tinubu of the APC, Adichie published an open letter to U.S. President Joe Biden, criticizing the conduct of the election and urging global leaders not to validate what she described as a flawed process.
She also appeared at the Presidential Election Tribunal in Abuja in a show of solidarity.
Obi has since confirmed plans to run again in the 2027 election, and with supporters like Adichie by his side, his campaign is expected to retain significant momentum.
