Nigerian movie star Funke Akindele has spoken out about her struggles with motherhood, heartbreak, and loss.
In a revealing interview, she accused her former husband, Abdulrasheed Bello, also known as JJC Skillz, of not taking responsibility for their children.
Akindele, a beloved actress and filmmaker, made the claim during a recent interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo. She shared how she has been raising their twin boys alone since the couple separated in 2022.
“I’m the only one raising the kids,” she said firmly, making it clear that her ex-husband has not been involved in parenting since their split.
The timeline of their relationship
Akindele and Bello tied the knot in 2016 in a widely celebrated wedding. Two years later, in 2018, the couple welcomed their twins. Their marriage appeared strong in public, with both often sharing loving photos and videos on social media.
However, in June 2022, Bello took to Instagram to announce their separation. His post suggested that the two had grown apart but still had unresolved matters, especially concerning their children and shared business ventures.
“I’m making this announcement to clear the air,” he wrote. “We are now living separate lives. We still have to sort out the custody and wellbeing of our children, and also deal with business matters. But I believe everything will be resolved eventually.”
Despite these words, Akindele now says she has been left to manage the entire responsibility of raising their children alone.
A storm of personal challenges
In the same interview, Akindele also opened up about personal struggles she faced after her mother’s death and her political loss in the 2023 general elections.
Akindele, who ran as the deputy governorship candidate for Lagos State under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), said she felt broken after the defeat. She admitted that she fell into depression during that time, made worse by the pain of losing her mother.
“I don’t like mourning,” she confessed. “When my mom died, I tried to move on quickly. I didn’t want to break down. But not allowing myself to grieve properly affected me deeply. I nearly died from the weight of everything.”
Holding it all together
The 46-year-old actress described that period of her life as one of the darkest. She was juggling her campaign, family responsibilities, and the emotional pain of personal loss—all at once.
She explained that the combination of losing her mother, separating from her husband, and facing a crushing political loss created a perfect storm that pushed her to the brink.
Despite everything, Akindele remains determined and strong. She said her children give her strength to keep moving. Being a mother, she added, has made her even more focused and driven.
“I have to be strong for them,” she said. “They are my world.”
Public support and future uncertainty
Akindele’s words have drawn sympathy from fans and fellow celebrities, many of whom admire her honesty and courage. Online, her story has sparked fresh discussions about single parenting and mental health, especially among women in the public eye.
Though Bello has not yet responded to Akindele’s recent claims, many are now watching to see whether he will comment or take steps toward co-parenting more actively.
Akindele, known for her hit sitcom Jenifa’s Diary and numerous blockbuster movies, has always been vocal about issues affecting women. Her recent statements have once again placed her at the center of public attention—this time, not for her roles on screen, but for the real-life drama she continues to face behind the scenes.
Resilience in the face of adversity
As she focuses on raising her twins and rebuilding her life, Funke Akindele remains a symbol of strength to many Nigerian women resilient in the face of loss, and unwavering in her commitment to her children.
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