Popular Nigerian actress Funke Akindele has officially confirmed her intention to return to politics, more than a year after contesting as the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State.
Akindele, who ran alongside PDP gubernatorial candidate Abdulazeez Adediran in the 2023 elections, made this announcement during the premiere episode of the ‘WithChude’ podcast, breaking her silence on political matters since the defeat to incumbent Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Shortly after the 2023 election loss, the actress had deleted all politically related posts from her social media pages. However, she now speaks with renewed purpose and clarity.
“I need to support. I need to give back. That’s why I went into politics,” Akindele explained. “And ask me if I am going to do it again? Oh, yes.”
She also reflected on her experience, describing politics as a journey that empowered her with knowledge, courage, and confidence.
“Getting into it, seeing violence, and shouting… then I started watching female politicians like Mummy Abike Dabiri. The way they speak and command respect and authority—I’m like, you can do it too,” she added.
According to the award-winning actress, the process of campaigning and engaging with the electorate helped her become better informed, more articulate, and statistically aware of Nigeria’s socio-political issues.
