Funke Akindele Reveals What Politics Did To Her
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has opened up about how her entry into politics significantly shaped her personal growth, making her more confident, knowledgeable, and aware of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Speaking during a live edition of #WithChude, hosted by media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, Akindele reflected on her experience as the deputy governorship candidate for Lagos State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 general elections. She ran alongside Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor) but lost to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“I went into politics because I wanted to support others and give back,” she explained. “Once I got in, I witnessed the chaos — the shouting, the violence. But then I observed female politicians, the way they commanded respect and authority, and I told myself, ‘You can do this too.’”
Akindele said the experience taught her courage, resilience, and the importance of being well-informed.
“I stood up and spoke. I learned that to thrive in politics or in life, you need to be bold, courageous, and strong. What will be, will be — fear only keeps you stuck,” she said.
She revealed that her political journey pushed her to dive deeper into civic education and governance.
“I began reading more about my country and my state. Today, when I speak, I back it with data and statistics. That confidence came from the knowledge I gained. And yes, I’m glad I ventured into politics. Would I do it again? Absolutely.”
Beyond politics, Akindele used the platform to advocate for mental health awareness, urging people not to suffer in silence.
Despite her public image of strength, the Jenifa star admitted to struggling privately with emotional turmoil, especially from online bullying.
“I’ve always known therapy is important, but I was afraid people would find out and gossip. I was silently breaking down while pretending to be strong,” she said.
She described how the loss of her mother — whom she called her “prayer partner” — alongside the pressure and backlash from politics, severely impacted her mental well-being.
“When my mum died, then came the political insults… I saw a video of women mocking me for not having a husband. I broke down completely. I cried and cried. That was the point I knew I needed help.”
Eventually, she turned to therapy and found it healing.
“I was able to tell my therapist things I couldn’t share with anyone else. That helped me feel lighter. So I encourage everyone: speak up, get help. It’s so important.”
Akindele also recalled a deeply painful moment during a family trip to Dubai, when she was criticized online for allegedly neglecting the late Jenifa’s Diary co-star Adejumoke Aderounmu, who reportedly battled depression before her death in 2024.
“People attacked me, saying, ‘She was in Jenifa, why pretend you care now?’ Meanwhile, I was already dealing with my own depression,” she said. “So I locked myself in a room and went live on social media — just to speak out. Some people lock the door and don’t make it out. I thank God I chose to talk.”
Reflecting on her journey, she concluded, “There’s no such thing as a completely strong person. Everyone needs help. Speak up.”
