Actor and comedian Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule, popularly known as Okey Bakassi, has explained why he accepted the position of traditional ruler of the Umuihuocha Autonomous Community in Imo State.
This follows an earlier report by QED.ng that the entertainer was elected king of the Umuihuocha community on April 28.
Now bearing the title “His Royal Highness Eze Okechukwu Onyegbule, the Okwe II of Umuihuocha Obohia Autonomous Community,” Okey officially assumed kingship during a special presentation ceremony marking the beginning of his reign.
Speaking at the event, the comedian-turned-monarch highlighted his community’s culture of peace and unity as part of his motivation for accepting the royal responsibility.
“We pride ourselves as a community that resolves disputes, the anger of a brother does not get to the bone,” he said.
He also referenced the support of a brother who stood by him through the selection process, adding, “If you look here, you will see that I came with my brother who went through the challenge to see the community and support, this is how Umuihuocha used to do things.”
Reeling out his promises to his people, the monarch assured residents of a peaceful reign.
“Umuihuocha are peaceful people, I won’t bring anything that will cause problems or calamity in this place (Umuihuocha). The promise I give to the people of Umuihuocha,” he said.
A formal statement by the community affirmed Okey Bakassi’s mandate and revealed that his kingship enjoyed widespread support from all five villages in the autonomous community, including titled men and women.
“We pledge our loyalty and support to him, at all times, as his mandate is that of the entire Umuihuocha by our constitution,” the statement read.
The 55-year-old is now officially on the list of celebrities holding traditional titles and chieftaincy.
Okey Bakassi began his entertainment career in the 1990s and rose to fame through stand-up comedy and television, particularly for his performances in Night of a Thousand Laughs.
He later ventured into acting and political service, including a stint as special assistant on entertainment to former Imo State governor Ikedi Ohakim.
