Okey Bakassi – Comedy
| Stage Name: | Okey Bakassi |
| Real Name: | Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule |
| Occupation: | Comedian and Actor |
| Date Of Birth/Age: | 23rd October, 1969 (55 years) |
| State of Origin: | Imo State |
| Gender: | Male |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Marital Status: | Ezinne Onyebule (Wife) |
| Education: | Rivers State University of Science and Technology |
| Known for: | Comedy |
Early Life
Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule, popularly known as Okey Bakassi, was born on October 23rd, 1969, in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. His parents, Mr. Livinus Onyegbule, a retired military personnel, and Mrs. Felicia Onyegbule, a nurse, provided the foundation for his upbringing. Raised in Mbaise, a small town in Imo State, Okey spent his formative years in Owerri, where he completed his primary education at the Alvan Ikoku Demonstration School.
Educational Pursuits
After earning his First School Leaving Certificate, Okey progressed to Mbaise Secondary School before moving to the Federal Government College in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. There, he successfully obtained his West African Senior School Certificate. With a thirst for knowledge, Okey continued his educational journey at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Engineering in 1992. His academic pursuits didn’t end there; he underwent the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program in Lagos State.
Theatrical Aspirations and Early Career
Okey’s passion for acting led him to form a group called “Theatre Kolleagues” during his university days, despite studying Agricultural Engineering. Despite not studying Theatre Arts, his involvement in this group sowed the seeds of his future in entertainment. During his NYSC program, he worked at the Nigerian Industrial Development Bank (NIDB) but found his true calling when he connected with movie producer and director, Zeb Ejiro. In 1993, Okey Bakassi made his debut on network television in the soap opera “Fortunes,” playing the role of “Nick,” one of the Johnson’s bodyguards.
As Nollywood emerged, Okey seamlessly transitioned from television to the big screen. His dual experience as an actor and a stand-up comedian, cultivated during his university days and service year, uniquely positioned him for success in the burgeoning Nigerian entertainment industry.
Stand-Up Comedy and Notable Achievements
Okey Bakassi’s versatility allowed him to conquer both the acting and comedy worlds. In 2014, he earned recognition for his acting skills by winning the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) category at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his role in “Onye Ozi.” However, his heart leaned towards stand-up comedy, where he established himself as a prominent figure both locally and internationally.
In 1995, Okey collaborated with Opa Williams and Nollywood actress Reginald Ebere to create “Night of a Thousand Laughs,” a stand-up comedy show that contributed significantly to the popularization of comedy in Nigeria. Today, he continues to make waves, hosting a daily comedy show on Lagos Talks 91.3fm titled “It’s Okay with Okey” and a program called “The Other News” on Channels TV.
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Wife and Kids
Okey Bakassi’s personal life reflects stability and commitment. He has been married to his wife, Ezinne, for 17 years, and together they have three children – two girls and a boy. Currently residing in Canada, where his wife completed her education and works, Okey Bakassi has achieved a balance between family life and his thriving career.
Awards
Celebrating 25 years in the comedy industry on April 22nd, 2018. He has accumulated numerous awards, including Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Best of Nollywood Awards, Best Actor in Comedy at the Africa Movie Academy Awards, and African Best Comedian of the Year at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards.
Net Worth
Okey Bakassi stands as one of the richest and most influential comedians in Nigeria. With an estimated net worth of $5 million. You can connect with him on Instagram.