Funke Akindele, the filmmaker and actress, has revealed her intention to return to politics.
In the 2023 general election, Akindele was a deputy governorship candidate in Lagos State under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), running alongside Olajide ‘Jandor’ Adediran.
Her party lost the election to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the incumbent governor and candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC).
Speaking at the #WithChude Live event in Lagos, the ‘Jenifa’s Diary’ star revealed she entered politics with a mission to contribute to society.
Akindele admitted the political arena was initially intimidating but credited female leaders like Abike Dabiri, chair of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), for inspiring her growth.
She said her experience in politics made her bolder and more courageous, pushing her to speak with confidence and authority.
Read also: Boost for creative industry as Funke Akindele empowers aspiring women creatives
Akindele added that despite her unsuccessful attempts, she has no regrets and remains open to future political endeavours.
According to Akindele, “I need to support, I need to give back. That is why I went into politics,” she said.
“Getting into it, seeing the violence, seeing the shouting, then I started watching female politicians, the way they speak, command respect and authority like Abike Dabiri. And I’m like, I can do it too.
“And I stood and spoke. I learnt that from there that you have to be bold, courageous, and strong. What would be would be. Fear will only put you in a place.
“So, all this I learnt from doing politics, and I got to know a lot of numbers. I got educated more and acquired more knowledge.
“I’m reading more and knowing more about my country and my state. When I want to speak, I speak with statistics data.
“So, I’m glad that I went into politics. And ask me if I am going to do it again? Oh, yes.”
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