Actress and politician Funke Adesiyan has withdrawn her aspiration to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Ibadan South-East/North-East Federal Constituency in Oyo State.
Funke announced her decision in a letter shared on Facebook on Saturday. The letter, dated April 24, 2026, was addressed to the chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area.
In the letter, she said her decision followed “certain reflections and high-level consultations,” describing the move as personal and deliberate.
“This decision is personal, deliberate, and guided by a clear assessment of the broader political landscape, as well as my commitment to long-term value, credibility and purposeful service,” she stated.
“I remain fully appreciative of the confidence reposed in me across different levels and the encouragement received from supporters and stakeholders within and beyond our constituency,” she added.
Funke said stepping down at this time would allow her to refocus and continue contributing to development through other means.
“At this time, I consider it more important to step back with clarity and focus, while continuing to contribute meaningfully to the progress and development of our people through other strategic avenues,” she said.
She also reaffirmed her commitment to the advancement of Oyo State and Nigeria.
Funke is known for her work in Nollywood before moving into politics. She became active in political campaigns in 2011 as a South-West coordinator for Ibrahim Shekarau’s presidential bid.
In 2015, she contested for a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly under the People’s Democratic Party, winning the party primary but losing the general election.
She later defected to the APC in 2018, citing a desire to make a broader impact. In 2019, she won the party’s primary for the Ibadan South-East II constituency but later alleged that her mandate was taken and given to another candidate.
Between 2019 and 2023, she served as personal assistant to Aisha Buhari on domestic and social events during the administration of Muhammadu Buhari, where she was involved in organising programmes and community initiatives.
Her latest decision adds to her record in politics as she continues to engage in public service through other avenues.
