The Nigerian movie industry was thrown into mourning yesterday following the death of Alexx Ekubo at the age of 40.
Ekubo reportedly died on Monday night at Evercare Hospital in Lekki, Lagos, after battling liver cancer. Former BBNaija star and Director of Communication for the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Boma Akpore, confirmed the development, stating that the actor’s body had been moved to Ebony Vaults in Ikoyi.
Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe also confirmed the news in an Instagram post, writing: “I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me. Nollywood has lost a rare soul, and I’m lost for words because this wasn’t the plan, Alex Ekubo.”
Veteran filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen, who gave Ekubo his first movie role, described the loss as “devastating and unbelievable.” He recalled meeting the actor as neighbours in Surulere and said Ekubo regularly visited film locations on Saturdays while still in school. “That was how I gave him his first movie role that ushered him into Nollywood,” Imasuen said.
Ekubo had remained largely absent from public life and social media since December 2024, around the period his engagement ended.
Born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, the actor hailed from Arochukwu. Known for his height, charisma and strong screen presence, he became one of Nollywood’s most recognisable faces over the past decade.
In 2020, the United Nations recognised him among the “Most Influential People of African Descent under 40” for his contributions to entertainment and social development in Africa.
Following news of his death, tributes poured in from colleagues, celebrities and fans. Actress Funke Akindele expressed sadness over not seeing him one last time and remembered the nickname “Ore mi,” which he fondly used for her.
Actor Bolanle Ninalowo prayed for strength for Ekubo’s loved ones, while singer Peter Okoye simply wrote: “RIP.”
Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo described the death as difficult to process and paid tribute to the actor’s legacy.
Actress and filmmaker Omoni Oboli, who described Ekubo as her “bestie,” said she was devastated and reflected on the plans they had shared.
Media entrepreneur Mo Abudu recalled how Ekubo fondly called her “Mum” and described him as “loving, real, kind and always respectful.”
Similarly, actress Kate Henshaw remembered the support he gave her during her mother’s passing and lamented that she would not be able to repay his kindness.
Other celebrities including Yvonne Jegede, Kunle Remi and Ruth Kadiri also reflected on how the actor often reassured friends that he was fine despite concerns over his absence from the public in recent months.
Human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore described Ekubo as a “rare talent,” while broadcaster Oseni Rufai wrote: “Rest well Alex.”
