Okey Bakassi, the comedian and actor, has explained why he accepted the position of the traditional ruler of the Umuihuocha Autonomous Community in Imo State.
This follows an earlier report by eelive.ng that the comic actor and comedian, whose real name is Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule, emerged as the king of Umuihuocha, an autonomous community in Mbaise, Imo state.
The 55-year-old entertainer, had shared photos of himself in regal traditional attire, expressing gratitude to members of the community for electing him as their new leader.
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Officially assuming the kingship role, Bakassi now bears the title “His Royal Highness Eze Okechukwu Onyegbule, the Okwe II of Umuihuocha Obohia Autonomous Community.”
Speaking at the event, Bakassi stressed that his community’s culture of peace and unity was 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.
The community in an official statement affirmed Okey Bakassi’s mandate, revealing 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.
