Peter Obi Not Desperate for Power – Chimamanda Adichie

Renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has said that Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi is not driven by ego or a desperate quest for power.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Amazing Africans programme on Monday, Adichie praised Obi’s humility and consistency, even in the face of criticism and the outcome of the 2023 general elections.

“Peter Obi doesn’t need to be president. He wants to be because he genuinely cares about Nigeria,” she said. “That distinction matters. There are people who are desperate to become president, not out of love for country, but to satisfy their own egos.”

Adichie emphasized that Obi’s values continue to resonate with many Nigerians and that her support for him is deeply rooted in her love for the country.

Reflecting on their longstanding relationship, she shared, “He is one of the simplest and most authentic individuals I’ve ever known. The man I met 15 years ago is still the same in terms of his values genuine and consistent.”

She further commended Obi’s humility and sense of duty, saying he does not treat leadership as a favour to the people.

“Peter Obi is not someone who expects to be thanked for doing his job. For him, serving the people is simply what leadership is about. That’s one of the key reasons I support him,” she said.

“There is a strong sense of accountability in him. He doesn’t see leadership as an opportunity to dominate others but as a responsibility to serve with integrity.”