I can be tough, troublesome but I’m learning to manage people, says Funke Akindele

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has opened up about her personality, friendships and how she is learning to manage relationships.

Her comments came shortly after a moment involving fellow actress Toyin Abraham at the premiere of Iyabo Ojo’s film, The Return of Arinzo, sparked fresh conversations about rivalry and personal relationships in Nollywood.

Speaking in a recent interview on Morayo’s show, Akindele spoke about leadership, discipline, and the emotional weight that comes with working closely with different people.

She admitted that she can sometimes be difficult, especially when she is passionate about something or expects a certain standard from those around her.

The actress said, “There was a day when Uzee Usman sat me down when I was complaining about someone, and people who’ll say I’ve started again. Uzee would say, number one, you’re a leader, and you’ll accept people as they are. It’s not every door that you’ll close. You will leave her and put her in her place. And for the first time, I sat down. I was quiet. I left my food. Usman was eating his own food. He said if I didn’t eat my chicken, he’d eat it. Then he saw my eyes glistening. He said, ‘What’s wrong?’ Don’t you cry.

“I said, yes, what he said was true. I’m an extremist. I love so hard. I’m real. I’m like this. I’m not perfect and can be troublesome. I’m tough if I want you to do something. When my mom was alive, she’d say, “Everybody can’t be like me.” Everybody can’t be as smart as I am. So human relationships for me are very important. And I’m learning every day. But note, no matter what happens, my mental health is very important. I know I’m getting older.”

Akindele made it clear that she is not proud of being overly intense, but said she now understands the need to be more measured in the way she relates to people.

She also shared her thoughts on Brazilian Butt Lift procedures, saying she has nothing against women who decide to enhance their bodies, as long as it is done with care and moderation.

According to her, body enhancement is a personal choice, but safety should always come first.

“I must say I love to see beautiful women with beautiful bodies. Did you know I actually like BBL? The skinny BBL, not the big one. I love the flat tummy and liposuction. I love it.

“Oh God, when I look at them, I’ll be like, I wish my body I can see it. But I will not go and sleep like this. I say count one to ten. I don’t have the mind, but it’s beautiful. I must say, I’m not against it”, said the actress.

On politics, Akindele said her decision to run as the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Lagos during the 2023 general election came from a genuine desire to make a difference.

She said she entered the political space with sincerity and a strong wish to contribute to better representation for women, children, and young people.

Still, she admitted that the experience exposed her to pressure, falsehoods, and emotional strain.

“To speak the truth. I’m not going to cover up for the camera, you know. I love that space. Because I want to make a change. Yes. I feel that if I’m there, the women will be seen more. Children will be taken care of more. The youth will be off the streets. It can’t be perfect. Every other country has their own problems. We’re trying in Nigeria. You understand? I want to.

“I desire. But when I look at the space again, what I went through was a lot. It will mess with your mental health. If you’re not strong. A lot of lies. And Morayo, don’t forget, I don’t like lies.”(Guardian)