By Adedapo Adesanya
Popular Nigerian actor, Funke Akindele, otherwise known as Jenifa, after emerging as the Lagos State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, has promised to liberate Lagosians.
Ms Akindele will be flying the ticket of the opposition party with the governorship candidate, Mr Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, otherwise known as Jandor. They will hope to unseat the candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
In a statement via her Twitter, she said, “Dear Lagosians, I must share my decision to venture into a more significant facet of humanitarian service with you all.
“Through God’s grace, my 25-year career in the entertainment sector has seen much success and given me the privilege to engage with people from all walks of life.
“It was also within that period, that my passion for contributing to the growth of youth, women and children was solidified. Coupled with an upbringing dedicated to service to others and value for life, compassion for others is second nature to me.
“As a Lagosian born out of Ikorodu, when asked to join Dr Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (JANDOR) as his running mate for next year’s gubernatorial elections– the opportunity to help liberate and improve the welfare of our people could not be ignored.
“I found JANDOR to be young, brave, knowledgeable and compassionate. Most importantly, his commitment to making the wealth of Lagos truly reflect in the living standards of all her residents is genuine & remarkable.
“My decision is not only to accept this huge responsibility but to work tirelessly and complement JANDOR’s burning desire to see our dear state of Lagos live up to its full potential, where the people are made the top priority as immediate and direct beneficiaries.
“I use this opportunity to appeal to the well-meaning residents of Lagos, especially the youth: There is strength in numbers, and we must use this to our advantage. It is time to take our rightful people in matters that concern our lives and our future.
“Over the years, a great number of men and women with immense potential have been ignored, victimized, and sometimes killed, for daring to dream. Nothing can justify why our beloved city can be ranked the 2nd worst to live in globally, despite our N45bn in monthly revenue.
“This is the time to change our story and our lives. I am greatly aware of the cost of this assignment and prepared to make the personal sacrifice of putting my career on hold, to serve. My resolve is that no sacrifice is too much for the good of our people and state.
“As a woman, I strongly desire a state that values her women, protects the girl child and has zero-tolerance for abuse in any form. A state where your religion, age or tribe is a non-factor in having a fair chance of living your dreams.
“I must express my deep appreciation, both to our party leadership and our gubernatorial candidate for considering me worthy of such a great call to serve our people.
“I do not take this responsibility for granted. (Alt. I must express my deep appreciation, both to our party leadership and our gubernatorial candidate for considering me worthy of such a great call to serve our people. It is a call I take with reverence and utmost responsibility.)
“Given your mandate, be assured that the people’s governor, Dr Olajide Adediran with the support of my humble self, represents the much-needed breath of fresh air in Lagos State. Indeed we can achieve a Lagos that works for all. Let’s do this.”
Aduragbemi Omiyale 
Modupe Gbadeyanka