A Man of the People – by Chinua Achebe

A Man of the People is a sharp and satirical political novel by Chinua Achebe, first published in 1966. Set in a newly independent African country, the story follows Odili, a young and idealistic teacher, who becomes disillusioned with the corrupt practices of Chief Nanga, a once-admired leader and now a symbol of greedy, post-independence African politics.

As Odili enters the political arena to challenge his former mentor, the novel explores the hypocrisy, patronage, and betrayal that characterize the political class. Achebe masterfully critiques the failures of African leadership, the fragility of democracy, and the ease with which power can corrupt.