Celebrated comedian and actor, Okechukwu Onyegbule, better known as Okey Bakassi, says a typical African father is wired to protect and provide for his family, pointing out that “Daddy” is the highest title a man can hold.”
He observed that poverty puts immense strain on families, hence the need for a man to very work hard to fend for his loved ones.
Speaking in an interview with The Punch, Okey Bakassi said, “As a husband, you must paint a future your partner believes in. My wife and I operate as a team. The children see that unity and understand its seriousness.”
While disclosing why his people of Umuihuocha Autonomous Community in Imo State made him their traditional ruler, he stated that spending years in the eyes of the public doesn’t go without recognition,
While asserting that he has carried himself responsibly, Okey Bakassi said, “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.”
On the impact he has so far made via the throne, 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 also 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.
