7 Celebrities Who Got Into Politics in Nigeria

September 7, 2025 admin

Introduction

In Nigeria, the line between entertainment and politics has become increasingly blurred. Over the years, some of the country’s most prominent celebrities have swapped the stage and screen for the campaign trail. With their fame, charisma, and influence, these entertainers have sought to use their platforms to shape policy, advocate for their communities, and address pressing national issues.

From Nollywood actors to music icons, the transition into politics has been a bold step, often met with both support and skepticism. Here, we look at seven Nigerian celebrities who ventured into politics, their motivations, and the impact of their political journeys.

1. Desmond Elliot – Nollywood Actor Turned Lawmaker

Desmond Elliot is one of the most famous Nollywood actors to cross over into politics. Known for his roles in countless Nigerian films, Elliot leveraged his popularity to win a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Political role: Represents Surulere Constituency I.
Notable moments: His political career has been both praised and criticized. During the #EndSARS protests in 2020, Elliot faced backlash for comments perceived as dismissive of youth activism. Nonetheless, he remains a strong political force in Lagos politics.
Why it matters: His journey reflects the power of Nollywood’s influence in shaping public trust and votes.

2. Banky W (Olubankole Wellington) – Music Star and Social Activist

Olubankole Wellington, popularly known as Banky W, is not just a music sensation but also a businessman, philanthropist, and political aspirant. After years of inspiring young Nigerians through music, he took a bold step into politics.

Political ambition: Ran for the House of Representatives seat in Eti-Osa Federal Constituency, Lagos, in 2019 under the Modern Democratic Party (MDP). Though unsuccessful, he later joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and contested again in 2023.
Message to Nigerians: Advocated for youth inclusion, transparency, and participatory governance.
Why it matters: Banky W symbolizes the new wave of educated, socially conscious entertainers who want to shift from “entertaining” to “policy-making.”

3. Kanayo O. Kanayo – Veteran Nollywood Actor and Advocate

Chief Kanayo O. Kanayo (KOK) is a Nollywood legend whose decision to step into politics was met with widespread interest. Known for his commanding on-screen presence, he tried to translate that into political leadership.

Political ambition: Ran for the House of Representatives seat in Ahiazu/Ezinihitte Mbaise Federal Constituency of Imo State under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in 2011.
Outcome: He did not win, but his move sparked conversations on how celebrities could influence Nigerian politics.
Why it matters: KOK’s ambition showed that even established stars are not immune to the desire to serve and bring change at grassroots levels.

4. Yul Edochie – Actor and Presidential Aspirant

Yul Edochie, son of veteran Nollywood actor Pete Edochie, made waves when he declared his political ambitions. Unlike many celebrities who aimed for legislative positions, Yul set his sights much higher.

Political ambition: Declared his intention to run for the presidency of Nigeria in 2019, though he later stepped down. He also served briefly as the Senior Special Assistant on Creative and Entertainment Media to the Governor of Anambra State.
Message: Advocated for youth participation in leadership and a break from Nigeria’s recycling of “old politicians.”
Why it matters: Yul represents the boldness of young Nigerians who are unafraid to dream big in politics.

5. Kate Henshaw – Actress and Politician

Kate Henshaw, a celebrated Nollywood actress, is known for her activism and outspoken nature on national issues. Her political journey highlighted the growing role of women in Nigerian politics.

Political ambition: Contested for the Calabar Municipal/Odukpani Federal Constituency seat in Cross River State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015. Though she lost the primaries, her involvement inspired many.
Advocacy: Beyond politics, she has been a strong voice on health, fitness, and youth empowerment.
Why it matters: Kate’s story emphasizes the challenges female politicians face in Nigeria, as well as the importance of representation.

6. Funke Akindele – Actress and Deputy Governorship Candidate

Funke Akindele, popularly known as “Jenifa” after her iconic role in the comedy series Jenifa’s Diary, shocked Nigerians when she announced her entry into politics.

Political ambition: Chosen as the deputy governorship candidate for Lagos State under the PDP in the 2023 elections, running alongside Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (Jandor).
Campaign message: Advocated for better governance in Lagos, youth inclusion, and women’s empowerment.
Outcome: The PDP lost to the APC, but her candidacy generated massive buzz and showed the power of celebrity influence.
Why it matters: Funke’s move demonstrated how entertainers can bring visibility to political campaigns and engage otherwise politically apathetic youths.

7. Kenneth Okonkwo – Nollywood Pioneer Turned Politician

Kenneth Okonkwo, who starred in Living in Bondage (the film that kickstarted Nollywood in 1992), has been an outspoken voice in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Political involvement: Joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) and later aligned with the Labour Party during the 2023 elections. He became a prominent spokesperson for the party’s presidential campaign.
Why it matters: His involvement reflects how celebrities can transition from acting to political advocacy, playing crucial roles behind the scenes.

The Bigger Picture: Why Nigerian Celebrities Enter Politics

The movement of celebrities into politics is not unique to Nigeria—it’s a global trend. However, in Nigeria, it reflects deeper issues such as:

Distrust in career politicians – Many Nigerians believe entertainers might offer more sincerity and accountability.
Youth frustration – Young people are rallying behind relatable figures who share their struggles.
The power of influence – With millions of fans, celebrities have ready-made audiences for political mobilization.

ALSO READ : How Mercy Johnson Balances Motherhood and Acting

Conclusion

From Nollywood to music stages, Nigerian celebrities are boldly stepping into politics, proving that leadership is not confined to traditional political elites. While their journeys have been filled with challenges—losses at the polls, criticism, and public scrutiny—they have opened up crucial conversations about inclusion, youth participation, and innovation in governance.

The stories of Desmond Elliot, Banky W, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Yul Edochie, Kate Henshaw, Funke Akindele, and Kenneth Okonkwo show that the path from entertainment to politics is not always smooth, but it is undoubtedly impactful.

As Nigeria’s democracy continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the role of celebrities in politics will only grow, and the spotlight will remain firmly on how they balance fame with the responsibility of public service.