Peter Obi Mourns Dolly Parton, Says Music Legend Never Forgot Her Humble Roots

Nigerian politician and Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi has paid tribute to legendary American country singer and songwriter Dolly Parton, describing her as a woman whose greatest legacy went beyond music.

Parton reportedly died on Tuesday at the age of 80. Her death was confirmed by her nephew and longtime security chief, Bryan Seever, in a video shared through the singer’s official social media accounts.

Obi, in a tribute posted on his X account on Wednesday, said Parton’s life stood out not only because of her musical achievements but also because she remained humble despite attaining global fame, wealth and success.

The former Anambra State governor said Parton’s upbringing in rural Tennessee, where she grew up in a large family with limited material resources, helped shape the compassion, generosity and humility she displayed throughout her life.

According to Obi, Parton’s songs connected with millions because she sang about love, heartbreak, hardship, loneliness and hope from a place of personal understanding. He said her music also gave recognition to ordinary people whose struggles were often overlooked.

Obi particularly praised the late singer’s charitable spirit and her concern for children, poor people and others in need. He said her success never appeared to distance her from the values and circumstances that shaped her early life.

He also referenced Parton’s song “Coat of Many Colors”, saying she transformed the experience of growing up poor into music that offered comfort and inspiration to millions around the world.

“For me, that is her greatest song: the sound of a good heart that never forgot its roots,” Obi wrote as he prayed for the late singer’s soul to rest in peace.