Peter Obi reacts as Chimamanda writes preface of Pope's new book

The presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has said that Pope Francis’ new book, “Hands Off Africa”, prefaced by Nigerian literary giant, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is timely.

Obi said this in a statement released on Thursday.

The release of the new book, which condemns the continuing exploitation of Africa by Western powers, came weeks after Chimamanda wrote a well-publicised letter to US President Joe Biden, urging him not legitimise Nigeria’s “sham election” by congratulating President-elect Bola Tinubu.

Chimamanda is a supporter of Obi, who emerged as second runner-up in the February 25 presidential election.

Obi said, “I am glad to see the release of the new book, “Hands Off Africa”, written by Pope Francis and prefaced by our literary ambassador and global author – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

“The book whose release is timely, touches on a very critical point of discontinuing the exploitation of Africa by the Western powers. As Pope Francis suggests, “May Africa be the protagonist of its own destiny!”

“I have consistently called on Nigerians to take back their country because only Nigerians can save Nigeria. This is the only nation that we have, and it is ours to build and develop.

“When I rejected the dual citizenship of other countries years back, I was conscious that Nigeria as the only country that I have will need my full attention and commitment in the years to come.

“I remain committed to the progress of our nation, Nigeria, and to her continued constructive role in Africa.”