Nollywood actress-turned-politician Funke Akindele has finally spoken out after losing the election held on Saturday.
INEC teller Adenike Oladiji, who announced the result, said Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu secured 762,134 votes against his main challenger Olajide ‘Jandor’ Adediran of the PDP, who got 62,449 votes, and Gbadebo Rhodes. -Vivour, from LP, who obtained 312,329 votes.
Ms Akindele, the running mate of PDP gubernatorial candidate Jandor, addressed the public after her loss.
Beginning his speech, he described his first attempt at a political trip as a fantastic run.
“It has been an amazing and insightful experience on my way to the ballot, and I have to say, it was an absolute learning curve for me. Many things have been learned and unlearned. I honestly do not regret taking this big step of running for office,” she wrote.
Giving his first vote of thanks, he addressed his supporters and acknowledged those who were against him.
She said: “Therefore, I want to thank the people of Lagos State for believing in me and supporting my decision to run for office. I saw all the support messages online and offline; I heard from all the places where people supported me and challenged those who tried to discredit me.
“I remember every warm welcome during our campaign tour and the faith you all showed in me. The election may not have turned out as we hoped, but it was an honorable race for us. In fact, we fought a good fight,” he added.
Ms. Akindele, who is also a law graduate from the University of Lagos, also encouraged those with good intentions to exercise their civil rights, urging them not to choose the path of apathy.
“I also want to encourage everyone who has good intentions for the Nation and Lagos State not to give up. I understand that some of us are starting to develop apathy towards the system; however, if we do not speak, we will never be heard. I’m glad we could at least talk,” he said.
At the end of his speech, he thanked his supporters and vowed to continue advocating for the people of Lagos.
“Thank you once again, Lagos, for showing support for your daughter. As I consider my next moves in life, I will continue to prioritize the good of the people and the integrity of my position as an advocate for the people. Eko oni come down!” She wrote.
The actress and film producer removed all posts related to politics from her Instagram page.
The actress also unfollowed her ex-husband AbdulRasheed Bello, aka JJC Skillz, on Instagram.
reactions
Reacting to the actress’ speech, many praised her sportsmanship even when she didn’t congratulate the winners of the gubernatorial race.
Well articulated writing and sportsmanship. We are proud of you. Something big in the nearest future. Back to work.
— hakeem buhari (@Royalfiits) March 20, 2023
No one can discredit you or what you represent. All those loud people can only discredit themselves and not the Funke brand.
— Olúshọlá (@shola_olushola) March 20, 2023
Well done, I salute your courage. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 you have what they did they have integrity and a good name to protect. Well done once again.
—Ayinke (@dupsy74) March 20, 2023
You’re welcome maami, there’s a saying that goes: “Success is most often achieved by those who don’t know that failure is inevitable.” I always defend you… I love your energy ma
— Falaiye oluwaseun Ebunoluwa (@Falaiyeoluwase1) March 20, 2023