9th April, 2024
By Oluwapelumi Oluwayemi
Responding to claims of neglect towards the late actress Aderounmu Adejumoke during her illness, Funke Akindele, the producer of the popular series “Jenifa’s Diaries” in which Aderounmu starred, has taken to Instagram live on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, to clarify her stance.
Aderounmu, known for her role as Esther in the hit series, reportedly reached out for assistance during her sickness, sparking controversy after her brother Adeola Aderounmu hinted on Instagram that their attempts to contact Akindele for help were unsuccessful.
A weeping Akindele expressed her suprise at the situation, stating that she was unaware of Aderounmu’s illness until seeing a disturbing comment on her social media, prompting her to address the issue publicly.
Emphasizing that her relationship with Aderounmu was purely professional, Akindele stated that she was unaware of Aderounmu’s personal issues beyond work.
Additionally, Akindele revealed that she attempted to reach out to Aderounmu’s brother following her death but received no response.
“I sent a message to that guy. He saw it. He didn’t reply. I said I’m so sorry. I didn’t know anything about your sister.”
She expressed regret over the misunderstanding and stated her willingness to support others in need, citing instances where she has provided assistance without public acknowledgment.
Akindele also shared personal struggles, including the loss of her mother during the COVID-19 pandemic and challenges within her personal and professional life.
“I give randomly. I see people doing stuff and support them. What more do you want me to do? Please,” she said.
“I had to do this because this has to do with somebody’s life. I’m so unhappy because personally, you don’t know what I am going through. I work hard, ‘round the clock. People will say ‘Ooh she doesn’t support her colleagues. She doesn’t attend events.’ I live in Amen Estate, Eleko. That is where my studio is. Before I drive down to Lekki or Ikoyi for an event,” she said the event would have ended.
“I don’t beef any filmmaker. I face my thing. The record I have been able to break is by the grace of God. Do not forget I have got my trying moments too. During COVID remember my mom passed on. Politics? I was backlashed. Marriage, remember? Somebody now said you will lose your children. I think that is too much.”
“I was depressed, I lost my mother & my marriage. Stop saying I’ll bvry my own children. I have my trying moments too”
– Funke Akindele cries as she debunks allegations about Jumoke Aderounmu pic.twitter.com/3vULjV9nNy
— OLAMIDE 🌸💖 (@Olamide0fficial) April 9, 2024