“Opposition Or Not, She Was Congratulated” — Saheed Balogun Says Tinubu Praised Funke Akindele Despite Political Rivalry

Image:I.G 

 Nollywood actor Saheed Balogun has shared a campaign-season experience that touches on both politics and the film industry, recalling how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu responded to the success of actress Funke Akindele at a time when she belonged to an opposing political camp.

Speaking from his involvement in Tinubu’s campaign, Balogun described a period when political tensions were high, yet professional achievements still gained attention across divides. He pointed to the same year Akindele entered partisan politics as a candidate under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, noting that it also marked a major milestone in her filmmaking career.

According to him, her movie’s performance at the box office stood out, crossing the billion-naira mark and setting a new benchmark within Nollywood. Despite the political differences between both sides during that election period, Balogun said the accomplishment drew recognition.

He said:

"l could remember the same year My colleague Actress Funke Akindele contested against us,

she was in an opposition party and she later grossed a Billion in the box office because she broke a record that same year,

our Government under Asiwaju recognised and congratulated her.

Just for you to know Asiwaju doesn't have the intention of one party system in 9ja.

Asiwaju loves women most especially because you women are smart, intelligent and productive"

Akindele’s role in the 2023 Lagos governorship race brought increased attention to the growing involvement of entertainers in Nigerian politics. Over the years, several figures from Nollywood have stepped into public office contests or aligned themselves with political movements, reflecting the industry’s expanding influence beyond film.

Balogun’s account offers a glimpse into how moments of acknowledgment can occur even in competitive political settings. His remarks suggest that achievements in the creative sector can resonate beyond party affiliations, especially when they reach significant milestones.

As Nollywood continues to grow in reach and economic value, its leading figures remain central not only to entertainment but also to wider national conversations.

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