Celebrated Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, has reiterated her support for Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing him as a leader motivated by patriotism rather than a thirst for power.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Amazing Africans, Adichie said Obi’s desire to become Nigeria’s president stems from a deep-seated concern for the country’s future, not personal ambition.
“Peter Obi doesn’t need to be president. He wants to be because he cares about Nigeria. That’s a crucial difference,” she said. “There are those who are desperate to become president just to feed their egos, not because they have the country’s best interests at heart.”
Adichie, who publicly endorsed Obi during the 2023 presidential election and described him as “my big bro” in a viral social media post, said her continued support for him is rooted in both personal conviction and her hope for a better Nigeria.
“I support Peter Obi because I love this country,” she said. “I believe that with the right leadership, Nigeria can change for the better. Obi represents the kind of integrity and humility I want to see in a leader.”
She praised Obi’s character, describing him as someone who understands public service and accountability.
“He doesn’t expect applause for doing his job. For him, leadership is a responsibility. He’s not someone who believes he should lord it over the people,” she noted. “The person I met 15 years ago is the same today in terms of values — he’s genuine, principled and curious.”
Adichie’s comments come as Obi’s one-term pledge continues to stir political debate ahead of the 2027 elections. Critics have dismissed the vow as a gimmick, while others see it as a bold and honest approach to leadership.
Reacting to the controversy, Obi on Tuesday defended his position in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), insisting that the offer to serve just four years if elected is based on sincerity, not desperation.
“I find it baffling that my decision to serve a single term is generating so much agitation,” he wrote. “It suggests we no longer believe that a sincere leader can make a meaningful difference in four years.”
Obi rejected the notion that his pledge was a political stunt, stating that his track record shows he is not the kind of politician who clings to power at all costs.
“I have never displayed the traits of desperation — I don’t engage in aggressive rhetoric, paranoia, personal attacks, or policy flip-flops. I have never been involved in election violence or malpractice. My political journey has been guided by principle, not self-interest,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor argued that with clear goals and discipline, four years is enough time to implement critical reforms in areas such as corruption, governance, and institutional integrity.
“In four years, we can confront corruption, restore fiscal discipline, and ensure that the rule of law is sacrosanct. We can also conduct credible elections and redirect wasteful spending toward healthcare, education, and infrastructure,” he said.
Obi added that Nigeria doesn’t need leaders who see the presidency as a prize, but those who understand it as a platform for service.
“My intention is not to cling to power, but to lead a government focused on results and public good,” he said.
As 2027 draws nearer, Obi’s declaration continues to spark debate across political lines, with Adichie and others positioning him as a candidate whose values and vision set him apart from the traditional political establishment.
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