Okey Bakassi comedy leadership shines as veteran entertainer balances decades-long career with role as traditional ruler in Imo State

Okechukwu Onyegbule, popularly known as Okey Bakassi, spoke to Naomi Chima about balancing his over three-decade-long career in entertainment with his role as the Okwe II of Umuihuocha Autonomous Community.

Also read: Fred Amata, other Nollywood icons are given their flowers at a pre-premiere party – Videos

Bakassi, an actor, comedian, and public speaker, described entertainment as more than a hobby.

“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?” he said, emphasising that pursuing entertainment demanded the same dedication as any full-time profession.

The veteran revealed that his upbringing in a disciplined military household in Port Harcourt shaped both his humour and work ethic.

Exposure to diverse languages, cultures, and stories provided rich material for his craft.

Bakassi credited his contribution to the birth of the pioneering Nigerian comedy show, “Night of a Thousand Laughs”, as instrumental in structuring the stand-up comedy scene in Lagos.

He noted that reinvention, especially moving from acting to stand-up, was essential for sustaining his career and income.

“Stand-up comedy stretches my creativity the most,” Bakassi said, describing it as an art form requiring real-time mental agility, audience awareness, and storytelling precision.

Reflecting on his traditional leadership role, Bakassi said, “Life evolves in stages. When a community asks you to represent them, it means they see something in you. I see this role as an opportunity, not retirement. Change is constant.”

He emphasised that balancing comedy and kingship is a matter of adapting responsibly to each stage of life.

On leadership, Bakassi advised humility and service, noting, “Leadership should teach humility. Power reveals character. Give someone power or money, and you’ll see who they truly are.”

He also shared insights on family and legacy, stressing intentionality in marriage, parenting, and professional life.

“My greatest legacy is the example I set for my children. You cannot fail at home and claim success as a leader. Charity begins at home,” he said.

On career competition, Bakassi advocated for healthy rivalry and continuous self-improvement, warning against building success on the failure of others.

He added that traditional rulers should not be seen as exempt from meaningful work, noting that public speaking, which he already excels at, aligns seamlessly with his duties as a king.

Also read: 7 Nigerian Celebrities Whose Real Names May Surprise You

Outside work, Bakassi enjoys football, reading, and spending time with family, maintaining a balance that supports both his entertainment and community leadership roles.