Funke Akindele, a prominent figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, has reaffirmed her commitment to a career in politics following her unsuccessful bid as the deputy governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State during the 2023 elections. Her journey into the political arena began with a partnership alongside PDP gubernatorial candidate Abdulazeez Adediran, a venture that ultimately concluded in defeat against the incumbent governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Following the election, Akindele maintained a period of public silence on political matters, removing all related content from her social media platforms. However, her recent appearance on the “WithChude” podcast marked a significant shift, as she openly declared her intention to pursue political office once again.
Akindele’s renewed political aspirations are driven by a deep-seated desire to contribute to societal betterment and give back to her community. She articulated this motivation during the podcast interview, emphasizing her belief in the importance of service. Her initial foray into politics, despite its outcome, served as a valuable learning experience, exposing her to the realities of the political landscape, including the prevalence of aggressive tactics and the challenges faced by women in the political sphere. These observations, however, did not deter her. Instead, they ignited a fire within her, inspiring her to emulate the strength and composure of established female political figures like Abike Dabiri, whom she admires for their ability to command respect and authority.
The 2023 election cycle, though unsuccessful in securing her a position in office, proved to be a transformative period for Akindele. It provided her with invaluable insights into the intricacies of politics, fostering a newfound appreciation for the importance of courage, boldness, and resilience in navigating the often-turbulent political waters. She acknowledged that fear is a paralyzing force, and that embracing the unknown, regardless of the outcome, is crucial for personal and political growth. This experience also broadened her understanding of the political landscape, prompting her to delve deeper into research and data analysis. She now approaches political discourse with a greater emphasis on statistical evidence, demonstrating a commitment to informed and data-driven policy discussions.
Akindele’s decision to re-enter the political arena is not simply a matter of personal ambition. It’s a testament to her evolving understanding of the political system and her unwavering belief in the power of service. The challenges she faced in her initial campaign, rather than discouraging her, have solidified her resolve to make a meaningful contribution to her community and country. She recognizes the importance of female representation in politics and aims to be a voice for change, inspired by the examples set by women who have successfully navigated the political landscape.
The actress-turned-politician is now armed with a deeper understanding of the political terrain, having experienced firsthand the complexities and challenges involved. She has emerged from her previous campaign with a reinforced commitment to serving her community and a greater appreciation for the importance of data-driven decision-making. Akindele’s re-entry into politics signifies not just a personal ambition but a renewed dedication to public service, informed by the lessons learned from her past experiences. She is poised to continue her journey in the political sphere, equipped with a newfound understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Her story serves as an example of the transformative power of political engagement, even in the face of defeat. It highlights the importance of learning from setbacks, the value of mentorship and inspiration, and the critical role of women in shaping the political landscape. Akindele’s journey is a testament to the potential for growth and resilience in the pursuit of public service, and her renewed commitment to politics signals a promising future for her contributions to Nigerian society. Her story will undoubtedly inspire other women to consider entering the political arena, contributing to a more diverse and representative political landscape.
