Atiku, Obi Commend Funke Akindele for Success of ‘A Tribe Called Judah’

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Former vice president and the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Atiku Abubukar and the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the last presidential election, have commenced a new movie by Funke Akindele, describing it as a reflection of the challenges faced by low privileged Nigerians.

According to Atiku, who took to his official X Account, yesterday, “I extend my heartiest congratulations to @funkeakindele for the phenomenal success of “A Tribe Called Judah.

“This film has not only shattered box office records by becoming the first Nigerian movie to earn 1 billion naira in domestic theatres, but it also stands as a beacon of cultural pride and the unyielding spirit of Nollywood.”

Atiku said, “A Tribe Called Judah” is not just a film; it is a cultural gem that reflects the vibrancy and resilience of Nigerian cinema.

“As a nation, we are incredibly proud of Funke’s achievements and her role in elevating Nigerian cinema to new heights. Her success is our success, and it inspires a new generation of filmmakers and storytellers in Nigeria and beyond.

“Congratulations, Funke, on this historic milestone. You have set a new standard for excellence, and your work inspires us all. -AA”

Obi  also described Nollywood actress, Funke Akindele’s blockbuster movie, as a reflection of the challenges facing the less-privileged Nigerians.

Obi, too, made this assertion in a statement via his verified X handle on Saturday.

Obi noted that the movie reflected “some of the complex challenges faced by many less-privileged families in Nigeria, in their struggles for survival.

“It is heartwarming to learn that ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ a movie by Nigerian Movie Producer, @funkeakindele, has achieved a record-breaking earning of N1 billion, in just 3 weeks of its release,” adding that the feat was a “historic moment in our Nigerian movie industry.”

According to Obi, Nollywood has remained one of Nigeria’s “biggest exports” in the past 10 years – which is affirmed by the works of the talented actress and movie producer.

“Nollywood remains one of the biggest exports of our country in the last decade and shows the inherent potential in our people which Akindele has copiously brought out in all her works.

“I congratulate Funke Akindele for achieving this feat which is a bold testament to her passion, hard work, and dedication in the movie industry,” he added.

Obi commended Akindele for having two of her previous movies – ‘Battle on Buka Street’ and ’ Omo Ghetto,’ sitting as the “second and third highest-grossing films at the Nigerian box office respectively.”

“It skillfully tells a story that appeals to its audience in a comic and entertaining delivery,” he added.

The LP presidential candidate urged Nollywood to “continue to tell stories that will inspire hard work, integrity, and productivity among Nigerians.

A Tribe Called Judah’ broke a box office record within three weeks of its release in cinemas to become the first Nollywood film to gross over N1 billion.