This novel, which marks Achebe's literary debut, was originally published in 1958 by the Nigerian author.
It explores the life in pre-colonial Igboland and the arrival of European missionaries and colonial powers in the late 19th century.
The story was first adapted into a film in 1971 and later into a mini-series in 1987, featuring the esteemed Nigerian actor Pete Edochie in the role of Okonkwo, the central character.
Elba, a British actor, is set to take on this iconic role, a decision that has generated considerable controversy.
However, in a recent interview with Channels TV, Oboli defended the casting, asserting that there is nothing inappropriate about Elba portraying the lead character, given his African heritage. She emphasized that Africans are best positioned to narrate their own stories.
“I think there is absolutely nothing wrong with Idris Elba playing ‘Okonkwo’ in Things Fall Apart,” she said.
“Idris is African. His dad is Sierra Leonean. Yes, he has lived abroad but he is African. So, that is an African telling an African story.
“So, I do not see anything wrong with that. I am just being honest.”
Bob-Manuel Udokwu has expressed his belief that Nigerian actors can offer a more profound understanding of the role.
Idris Elba, born in London to a father from Sierra Leone and a mother from Ghana, is recognized as one of the top 20 highest-grossing actors globally at the age of 52.