When Funke Akindele, the beloved Nollywood actress and box office queen, announced her plan to return to politics after facing defeat in her initial foray in 2023, it sparked a wave of curiosity and speculation among her fans and political observers alike. Despite being the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State during the election that ended in victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC), Akindele remains resolute in her determination to make a difference.
“I am glad I went into politics. And ask me, am I going to do it again? Oh, yes. Oh, I love it.”
During an engaging discussion on the ‘WithChude’ podcast, Funke Akindele shared insights into her motivations for delving into politics and the valuable lessons she gleaned from the experience. Her passion for giving back to society served as a driving force behind her initial decision to enter the political arena.
Reflecting on her journey, Akindele expressed how witnessing the dynamics of politics firsthand exposed her to both its challenges and rewards. She recounted moments of observing seasoned female politicians who inspired her with their eloquence, confidence, and ability to command respect.
“Getting into it, seeing the violence… Then I started watching female politicians…and how they command respect, authority.”
Akindele candidly shared how immersing herself in politics broadened her knowledge base, compelled her to stay informed about national issues and statistics, and empowered her with a deeper understanding of governance at both local and national levels.
In response to public speculations following her noticeable retreat from political discourse post-2023 election loss – symbolized by deleting all related content from social media platforms – Funke’s recent announcement signals not just a return but also a renewal of commitment towards effecting positive change through active participation in governance.
Expert analysts view Akindele’s reentry into politics as emblematic of a broader trend where celebrities leverage their platform influence beyond entertainment realms towards sociopolitical causes. While some skeptics question their depth of policy understanding or commitment longevity compared to career politicians’, others applaud their ability to mobilize youth engagement and bring fresh perspectives into often stagnant political landscapes.
The unfolding chapters of Funke Akindele’s political saga promise an intriguing narrative rich with resilience, growth, and possibly even redemption. As she prepares for this next chapter in governance involvement, one thing remains certain – Akindele’s unwavering spirit will continue propelling her forward despite past setbacks.
