Nigerian celebrities who are into politics

When Nigerian celebrities decide to swap glitzy stages and red carpets for political podiums and campaign trails, it’s a thrilling shift that catches everyone’s attention and also garnered many questions in the minds of the masses.

These stars have built their careers on the love and admiration of their fans, and many believe they can channel this influence into politics for positive change. See the full list of Nigerian celebrities who’ve stepped into the political arena.

1. Desmond Elliot

If there’s a list of actors turned politicians, Desmond Elliot, will always have a seat at the table. Once the prince of Nigerian romantic dramas, Desmond made his political debut by winning the Lagos State House of Assembly seat for Surulere Constituency in 2015 under the APC (All Progressives Congress).

Though his political career hasn’t been without controversy (remember the infamous “Desmond Elliott” memes during the #EndSARS protests? And him calling Nigerian youth lazy?). He has been active in legislation, sponsoring bills and motions that address infrastructural development and youth empowerment (I mean, just to keep “lazy youths” busy).

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2. Banky W

R&B sensation Banky W continues to push the boundaries between entertainment and governance. After losing his first bid for the Federal House of Representatives in 2019 under the Modern Democratic Party, Banky contested again in 2023 under the PDP for Eti-Osa Constituency, championing education and youth employment. He didn’t win still but his fans are keeping hope alive.

3. Yul Edochie

Yul Edochie, son of Nollywood legend Pete Edochie, took the bold step of running for President in 2019 under the Democratic People’s Congress (DPC). While his campaign didn’t go far, it showcased his ambition to lead Nigeria on a national scale.

Nigerians are quite skeptical if he can really lead a whole Nigeria with the issue of his first marriage flying around on the internet. He hasn’t indicated interest to contest for presidency in years to come but we can never tell now.

4. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD)

Veteran actor, RMD, served as Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta State between 2009 and 2015. He was also a Senior Special Adviser to Delta State in 2007. He focused on empowering creatives and developing the state’s cultural infrastructure.

5. Funke Akindele

In 2022, Funke Akindele became the Deputy Governorship candidate for Lagos State under the PDP. While her ticket didn’t succeed, Funke’s campaign energized many youths and women, highlighting education and grassroots development.

Will her past marriage crises be a setback for her in politics and is she contesting again for the next governorship elections? Time will tell.

6. Tonto Dikeh

Actress and philanthropist Tonto Dikeh entered the political scene in 2023 as the Deputy Governorship candidate for Rivers State under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Her campaign emphasized women’s empowerment and healthcare. Though her ticket didn’t win, Tonto has remained a strong advocate for social reforms. Currently, she has port to APC and we can only wait to see all she can use her position to achieve for the masses.

7. Tony Tetuila

Tony Tetuila, the golden-haired pioneer of Afrobeats, shocked fans in 2015 when he ran for a seat in the Kwara State House of Assembly. Though he didn’t win, his foray into politics was a reminder that Nigerian celebrities can dream beyond entertainment.

8. Mercy Johnson-Okojie

Renowned for her roles in Nollywood, Mercy Johnson, has transitioned into politics with an emphasis on family welfare and education. She was appointed the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Kogi State Governor on Entertainment, Arts, and Culture in 2017, using her position to empower the creative industry.

9. Ini Edo

In 2016, Ini Edo was appointed as the Special Assistant on Tourism Development by the Akwa Ibom State Governor. Known for her elegance and talent, Ini used this platform to promote tourism and cultural heritage in her state, contributing to economic development.

10. Eniola Badmus

Known for her comedic roles, Eniola Badmus, has carved a niche in politics as a mobilizer and strategist. She played a key role in the media and publicity arm of the APC presidential campaign during the 2023 elections.

Currently, Eniola is the Senior Special Adviser to the speaker, House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on social events and public hearing.

11. Laide Bakare

Actress and producer, Laide Bakare, has taken steps into politics as the SSA to Osun state governor on entertainment, art, culture and tourism. Whether she lives abroad and holds political position in Nigeria, we can only watch and see the contribution she brings to Osun state and Nigeria as a whole.

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12. Kenneth Okonkwo

Kenneth Okonkwo of Living in Bondage fame has lent his voice to political causes for years. He aligns with progressive movements and parties and advocates for justice and governance.

The questions in the minds of the masses are: Are the celebrities holding these political appointments for the money’s sake or are they actually using their appointments as means to drive change in the country? Are they visible changes each appointee can state clearly during his or her appointment?

Whatever the case, Nigerians are delighted to see Nigerian celebrities doing more than just acting and also representing young generation of politicians taking part in decisions that concern them and the nation at large.