Final Answer:
Ekwefi follows Chielo because she is driven by the concern for her daughter's well-being, choosing option 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ekwefi's motivation to follow Chielo is rooted in her deep maternal love and fear for her daughter, Ezinma. The narrative in Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" portrays Ekwefi as a mother who has experienced the heartbreak of losing many children in the past.
Therefore, when Chielo, the priestess of the Oracle, takes Ezinma away, Ekwefi is compelled by her intense maternal instincts to ensure her daughter's safety. This choice aligns with the first option, as her actions are driven by genuine concern for Ezinma's welfare.
Ekwefi's decision to follow Chielo is not based on jealousy or a desire for a particular position, dismissing options 2 and 3. Throughout the novel, Achebe delves into the complex relationships within the Igbo society, and Ekwefi's character is defined by her maternal love and the pain of past losses.
Her journey with Chielo to see the god Agbala is not a pursuit of personal gain or rivalry but rather a selfless act driven by a mother's love and the desire to protect her daughter. In this context, option 1 is the most accurate representation of Ekwefi's motivation.
In summary, Ekwefi follows Chielo primarily out of concern for her daughter's safety, making option 1 the correct choice. The narrative underscores the theme of maternal love and sacrifice, emphasizing the depth of Ekwefi's character in "Things Fall Apart."