Popular Nollywood actress and producer, Funke Akindele, has emotionally opened up about the challenges she faced in recent years from her mother’s death, to the collapse of her marriage, a failed political bid, and raising her children alone without support from her estranged husband, Abdulrasheed Bello, popularly known as JJC Skillz.
The talented actress, known for her iconic roles in Jenifa’s Diary and blockbuster films like Omo Ghetto: The Saga, got married to JJC Skillz in 2016. The couple welcomed their twin sons in 2018. However, their union came to an end in June 2022, when JJC publicly announced their separation via Instagram.
In his post, he stated: “We both are pursuing separate lives. We still have issues such as the custody and wellbeing of our children to be addressed, as well as business interests which need to be disentangled.” Despite this, Funke has now revealed that she has been solely responsible for their children’s upbringing.
Speaking in a heartfelt interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, the actress shared her emotional turmoil and the overwhelming pressure she has endured. Recalling the dark moments after her mother passed in early 2023, she said, “I almost died… My heart was aching.”
Funke Akindele disclosed that she doesn’t like to mourn, often forcing herself to move on quickly, but the bottled-up grief eventually took its toll. The situation worsened when she became the target of online trolls amidst her personal struggles. “For the first time, I cried. I broke down for weeks,” she said.
The actress also expressed her frustration with public scrutiny, especially while navigating life as a single mother. “I have children I’m raising alone, and you are stressing me,” she said.
Funke Akindele’s vulnerability has sparked support from fans who commend her strength and resilience in the face of adversity.