Funke Akindele may have lost in her first attempt at a successful political journey. However, the billion-naira filmmaker says she would gladly do it again. The thespian, while speaking at the inaugural live edition of ‘WithChude’ podcast shared that the experience emboldened and helped her to build more courage.
She shared, “I learned that from there, that you have to be bold. You have to be courageous. You have to be strong. What will be will be. Fear will only put you in a place.”
The Finding Me producer further spoke about her fascination for female politicians. She shared how their embodiment of authority inspired her to do the same. Additionally, her involvement in politics helped her to have a better perception of the political arena. She described the experience as a tough one, but also quite enlightening. This is because she “got educated more” and acquired more knowledge about Nigeria, and her state.
Akindele’s foray into politics is inarguably one of the major highlights of the 2023 Lagos gubernatorial elections. It also remains one of the most defining periods in the thespian’s life as the decision to run for a political position seemed to be the most random endeavour for her. As a producer who has repeatedly bagged the title for the highest grossing film of all time for her movies, she evidently has a sustainable career.
However, old-time lovers of the “Tribe of Judah” can attest to her relentless pursuit of success, and a political career does seem like the kind of daunting move that Funke would make. Additionally, Akindele’s intriguing performance in her self-written and produced movie, Your Excellency (2019) tells you that she’s not new to the bustle of Nigerian politics.
She is not alone in the race either, as quite a number of A-list entertainers have taken politics as a second career choice.
Additionally, there are actors like Desmond Elliot who serves as a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, and Richard Mofe Damijo who was formerly the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State from 2009 to 2015. We’ve also had Banky, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, and Kanayo O. Kanayo, among others.
Speaking on the reason for joining politics, Funke Akindele shared that, “I need to support. I need to give back. That’s why I went into politics.”. As someone who has been actively involved in humanitarian activities, her decision to give back through politics may not be about the pump and glitz.
The actress, away from the cameras and big screens, is actively involved in advocacy for social change and empowerment. In 2024, she was appointed a National Goodwill Ambassador and advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness in Nigeria. This recognition by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) is evidence of her contributions and commitment to advocacy and healthy living.
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