It is no longer news that several big names in the Nigerian entertainment industry have indicated their interests to contest for elective positions in the country. From the movie industry, to comedy and music, a number of entertainers have come out to say they are ready to put their money where their mouths are. NET reports on some of some of them:

Federal House Of Representatives Hopefuls

Leading the group of entertainers going into politics is Alexander Abolore Ajifolaj Ifaola Akande, better known as 9ice. The gangling singer hinted at his desire to go into politics during the nation-wide ‘subsidy’ protests of January 2012. The singer has not only joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) he has also gone ahead to print posters and embarked on campaign trips to Ogbomoso North/South/Orire Federal Constituency which he hopes to represent in the Federal House of Representatives come 2015.

Kate Henshaw

Offiong Kate Henshaw is one of Nigeria’s leading actresses. The 43-year-old is also gunning for a seat in the Federal House of Representatives. Henshaw –whose aspiration was unveiled on youth advocacy website www.campaign.ng, on July 19, the day she turned 43 years old – is seeking to represent the Calabar Municipal/Odukpani Federal Constituency in her native Cross River State, on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

 Jibola Dabo is another celebrity politician in the making. The bearded actor has revealed his desire to represent Owo/Ose Federal Constituency in Ondo State, although the House of Representatives hopeful is yet to reveal the party on whose platform he hopes to achieve his aim.

Kenny Saint Best (formerly Kenny St Brown) might have been just a gospel artiste to many for some time now, but the Kennis Music manager has decided to throw her hat in the ring. Not only has she unveiled a poster as further statement of her intent, she has chosen to pitch her tent with the All Progressives Congress (APC) as she seeks a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly to represent Ikeja Constituency 01, covering the entire Onigbongbo area in Lagos.

Desmond Elliot

If you are one of those who thought Nollywood actor and director Desmond Elliot is from the eastern part of the country, think again. He is a bonafide Lagosian. The award-winning actor, who has featured in over 200 movies and several television series, is seeking membership of the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015. Elliot, who has revealed that he will be contesting on the platform of the APC, he aims to represent Surulere Constituency.

Dan D’Humourous

Just last month, comedian Dan D’Humorous unveiled a poster to announce his intention to run for a seat in the Rivers State House of Assembly. The comedian who revealed his intention on Instagram, said he aims to represent the Ikwerre Constituency, although he is yet to reveal the party platform on which he hopes to achieve his ambition.

Funke Adesiyan

Yoruba movie genre actress Funke Adesiyan is the latest Nollywood actress to join politics. Adesiyan has had her share of scandals in the past, but she seems ready to take on more responsibilities, with her desire to represent the people of Ibadan in the Oyo State House of Assembly. Adesiyan, who announced her political desire through a BBM broadcast, is yet to announce the party she will be joining, but she has reportedly been seen around some APC bigwigs in the ancient city of Ibadan.

 Bob-Manuel Udogwu

The special adviser to Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State on Nollywood and entertainment matters, Bob-Manuel Udogwu, recently disclosed his interest in politics. Having tasted the pudding through his political appointment, the actor has been confirmed to have his heart fixed on representing Idemili North Constituency at the Anambra State House of Assembly on the platform of the All Progressives’ Grand Alliance (APGA).

Others who have been mentioned to have been on the verge of delving into politics include; Fuji king Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1), veteran actor Prince Jide Kosoko and singer Adewale Ayuba.

 The Daunting Odds

For the entertainers, most of who are in the race partly due to the popularity they enjoy, the undeniable challenge is the size of their ‘war chest’ as regards finance. Most of those they count as their supporters may support moneybags or career politicians when It comes down to the wire, especially during primaries. Another major impediment is their lack of experience, which is all too glaring in the way many of them approach their new venture. Many of the entertainers have only recently started unveiling banners and posters, without carrying out the necessary consultations with their constituents.