Veteran actor and comedian, Okechukwu Onyegbule, popularly known as Okey Bakassi, has revealed why his people of Umuihuocha Autonomous Community in Imo State chose him as their traditional ruler, stating that people appreciate consistency in character.
He pointed out that spending years in the eyes of the public doesn’t go without recognition, stressing that he has carried himself responsibly. “When a community asks you to represent them, it means they see something in you. I turn 57 this year. Life has prepared me. I have maintained a stable family life and remained grounded,” Okey Bakassi told The Punch in an interview.
On the impact he has so far made on the community, the Okwe II of Umuihuocha Obohia said, “While you’re strong and connected, you can leverage those connections to uplift vulnerable people and put your community on the map.
“When I first “Googled” Umuihuocha, nothing came up. It felt like we didn’t exist. Today, there’s presence and visibility. By the time of the official coronation, the structures will be firmly in place.”
The renowned entertainer disclosed that he sees his new role as an opportunity, not a retirement, regretting that society has wrongly framed traditional leadership as something for people who are tired. This was as he disclosed that he has no fear about balancing comedy with the restraints of royalty.
Going down memory lane on his venture into comedy, Okey Bakassi said, “Comedy is just one aspect of what I do. I prefer to describe myself as an entertainer. My work is a blend of acting, stand-up comedy and public speaking; all wrapped into one package.
“It began as a hobby during my university days. But when I moved to Lagos for my youth service, I had to confront a defining question: what next? Do I get a paid job or pursue my interest in entertainment? Initially, I wanted to do it part-time because it came naturally to me and brought me joy.
“However, I soon realized that entertainment is not something you dabble in. The industry wasn’t as structured as it is today. Roles weren’t waiting for you; you had to chase them relentlessly. It demanded the same level of commitment and energy as any full-time profession.
“Toward the end of my service year, after deep reflection, I decided to pursue entertainment fully before considering paid employment. I was driven purely by passion. It gave me happiness and felt effortless. I told myself that if I could also make a living from it, then this was what I was meant to do.”
