Popular Nigerian comedian and actor, Okey Bakassi, has been named the traditional ruler of Umuihuocha Autonomous Community in Mbaise, Imo State, marking a new chapter in his career of public service and cultural leadership.
The 55-year-old entertainer, whose real name is Okechukwu Onyegbule, will now bear the royal title His Royal Highness Eze Okechukwu Onyegbule, OKWE II of Umuihuocha Obohia. He becomes the second monarch to be conferred with the title “OKWE,” following the footsteps of his predecessor, OKWE I.
Okey Bakassi made the announcement on Sunday via his social media platforms in a post titled “NEXT LEVEL.” Expressing gratitude to his community, he wrote: “Thank you, Umuihuocha Autonomous Community, for this honour. I promise to serve with all my heart.”
He further described the honour as “Service to Community,” pledging full commitment to the responsibilities of his new role.
The announcement sparked a wave of congratulatory messages from across the entertainment industry and beyond. Veteran comedian Gbenga Adeyinka hailed the appointment, writing: “Congratulations on your new elevation by the Umuihuocha Autonomous Community! This is a remarkable achievement. May you inspire positive change and demonstrate impressive leadership as you guide your community. Kudos to your community for making such an excellent choice.”
Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board, also extended his congratulations, referring to him as “Ichie Na Umuihuocha.”
Okey Bakassi’s journey into public leadership predates his coronation. He previously served as Senior Special Adviser on Entertainment to former Imo State Governor, Ikedi Ohakim, a position that reflected his commitment to promoting culture and creative arts in governance.
With this appointment, Bakassi becomes the only Nigerian entertainer recently elevated to the status of a traditional ruler, joining a distinguished list of celebrities who have received traditional honours in their hometowns.
Among them are singer D’Banj, who was honoured as Enyi Ka Nwanne Amuzi in Amuzi Obowoland, Imo State in 2018; actor Femi Branch, who was conferred with the title Agun Asa of Edeland in the same year; and actress Genevieve Nnaji, crowned Eze Ada 1 of Amuzu Nweafor in Mbaise. Music icon 2Baba was also bestowed the title Tafidan Kudendan (Ambassador of Peace) in Kaduna State.
Notably, other entertainers of Mbaise origin who have received traditional titles include Kanayo O. Kanayo, who was honoured as Ihe Mbaise Ji Ka Mba, and Alex Ekubo, who became Ikuku of Amumara Town in 2020.
