Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has opened up about her struggles with grief and mental health during an emotional appearance on WithChude Live. The Jenifa creator and Battle on Buka Street director revealed that after losing her mother, she silently battled emotional pain until she decided to seek therapy.
“I told myself I can’t continue like this. You need to speak,” Akindele shared, explaining that therapy allowed her to process feelings she had kept bottled up due to fear of gossip and public judgment. “Things I couldn’t tell people out there, I spoke to my therapist. And I’m better,” she added, encouraging others to prioritize mental health and seek professional help when needed.
Akindele’s candid admission challenges societal stigma around therapy, especially in Nigeria, where mental health discussions are often avoided. Her vulnerability has already sparked meaningful conversations among fans and peers in the creative industry.
Midway through the interview, the actress also confirmed her intent to return to politics, referencing her 2022 run as deputy governor of Lagos State. “Ask me if I am going into politics again. Yes, I am,” she affirmed. “I ventured into politics to change lives. I will run for office again.”
Throughout the interview, Akindele emphasized that her success stems from faith, discipline, and resilience. Her journey from private pain to public empowerment reflects a growing shift in how celebrities use their platforms—not only to entertain but also to advocate for mental health and societal change.
