By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
In his recent podcast that’s sparking conversations, Nigerian comedian Okey Bakassi delved into themes of authenticity and relationships in African societies.
Highlighting cultural contradictions, he claimed, “African men are only pretending with monogamy. Polygamy is in our DNA, yet society imposes a single-partner ideal.”
Furthermore, addressing the complexities of romantic connections, he quipped, “A woman is more likely to respond to someone who puts her in the mood than the man who loves her deeply.”
These candid remarks reflect his perspective on evolving relationship dynamics and traditional African values.
Five Things to Know About Okey Bakassi
Multitalented Entertainer
Okey Bakassi is a pioneer in Nigeria’s comedy scene, co-creating the legendary Night of a Thousand Laughs in 1995, which launched the careers of several comedians.
Academic to Actor
A graduate in Agricultural Engineering from Rivers State University of Science and Technology, he transitioned to entertainment during his NYSC year, debuting on TV in 1993.
Award-Winning Career
His portrayal in the Igbo-language movie Onye Ozi earned him the Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Best of Nollywood Awards in 2014. He has also appeared in numerous films and series like My Flatmates, Bank Alert, etc.
Family Man
Married to his wife Ezinne for over 17 years, they share three children and reside in Canada, balancing his thriving career with family life.
Advocate for Change
Beyond comedy, Okey ventured into politics, serving as an entertainment adviser to the Governor of Imo State, reflecting his commitment to societal impact.
These highlights not only showcase his contributions to comedy and Nollywood but also underline his knack for tackling cultural issues with humor and candor.