Funke Akindele Opens Up About Grief and Therapy Journey

Nollywood icon Funke Akindele made a heartfelt revelation during her appearance on WithChude Live, opening up about her struggle with grief and the healing power of therapy.

Widely celebrated for her hit series Jenifa and her directorial success Battle on Buka Street, Akindele spoke vulnerably about the intense pressure to appear strong while internally grappling with emotional pain.

“I told myself, ‘You can’t go on like this. You need to speak,’” she said, explaining that therapy gave her a private, judgment-free space to process emotions she had long buried.

She recounted the profound impact of losing her mother—a loss she initially concealed from the public out of fear of being misunderstood or judged. It wasn’t until she began therapy that she truly found relief.
“There were things I couldn’t share with people, but I told my therapist—and I feel better,” she shared, sending a strong message that seeking help is an act of courage, not weakness.

The interview took a surprising turn when Akindele confirmed her plans to re-enter politics. Reflecting on her 2022 campaign as a deputy governor candidate in Lagos State, she declared:
“Ask me if I’m going into politics again—yes, I am. I joined politics to make a difference, and I’ll do it again.”

Her announcement has reignited public speculation about her political ambitions and what her next move might be.

Throughout the conversation, Akindele emphasized the values that have guided her: faith, self-discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her decision to openly discuss grief and mental health breaks cultural taboos and encourages others—especially in communities where therapy is often stigmatized—to prioritize emotional well-being.

As she continues to shape her legacy, both in the creative industry and possibly in public service, Funke Akindele’s story stands as a powerful testament to the strength found in vulnerability—and the impact of turning pain into purpose.