Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Criticizes US Government's Two-Facedness in African Politics and Calls for Explanation on Nigerian Presidential Election Controversies

 

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a renowned Nigerian author, has criticized the conduct of the 2023 Nigerian presidential election, calling it "a slap in the face of the Nigerian people and an insult to the collective intelligence of Nigerians". In an interview with ARISE News, Adichie elaborated on her recent article, "Nigeria's Hollow Democracy", and criticized the US government's "two-facedness" when it comes to African politics.

Adichie called for an explanation from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding the controversies surrounding the election, stating that the conclusion that technical difficulties were the cause was "unconvincing". She believes that Nigerians deserve an explanation for what happened during the election, and that the US government should not endorse undemocratic processes.

Adichie expressed disappointment with INEC's flaws in the election, and also lamented her inability to acquire her Permanent Voter Card (PVC), which would have enabled her to vote. When asked about potential legal action against her for making false allegations in her article, Adichie said that she expected it but had no fear, as she had stated that they were only rumors and that there was a need to investigate them and provide an explanation to the people.

Adichie also responded to a statement from Wole Soyinka, who accused Yusuf Datti of making fascist statements. Adichie disagreed with Soyinka, stating that it was INEC and the government who were "fascist" for disenfranchising people of a fair election without an explanation.

Despite some questionable adjournments by the judiciary, Adichie expressed faith in them for a fair hearing and just ruling from the tribunal. She concluded by emphasizing the need for Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability in their democracy.