This idealized authoritarian leader can do no wrong and never appear weak, giving a strong voice to the aims of the mysterious Miniknog ruling council, whoever they are at any given time. In reality, 'Big Ape' is a figurehead, a work of fiction created by the Miniknog to keep a psychological grip on the Apex citizenry.
An all-knowing and all-seeing uber-ape of incredible intelligence, resolve, and musical skill, whose elaborate surveillance network, ruthless police force and outright scary army of scientists are all there to keep the Apex safe and secure, trust us. as far as the general public (and the Apex society in specific) are aware. Big Ape is the leader of the Miniknog and supreme glorious ruler of all Apex-kind.