Legendary comedian and Nollywood icon Okey Bakassi has been crowned the Eze-elect of Umuihuocha in Mbaise, Imo State. He will now be formally addressed as His Royal Highness Eze Okechukwu Onyegbule, the OKWE II of Umuihuocha Obohia Autonomous Community, Ahiazu Mbaise.
Okey Bakassi expressed gratitude to the people of Umuihuocha for their trust and support in bestowing the honor upon him. “Service to Community,” he wrote, describing his new role. Bakassi shared the news on his social media with the caption, “NEXT LEVEL.”
The coronation signifies a shift in Bakassi’s journey, moving from entertainment to leadership and community service. As the second monarch to bear the “OKWE” title, Bakassi’s ascension marks a new era for the community, blending tradition with modern leadership.
Gbenga Adeyinka offered a congratulatory message, “Congratulations on your coronation! I pray for your success. May you inspire positive change and demonstrate leadership in your community.” Shaibu Husseini, executive director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), affectionately referred to him as “Ichie Na Umuihuichia”.
Reactions from fans and well-wishers poured in, with some joking about his new role. “@otega1” called it the “biggest joke of the year,” saying, “King is also the Jester, congrats to him”. “@bespokebygolddigger” wished him discernment on his new journey, saying, “May God grant discernment on this new journey”.