Nollywood mourns as new details emerge surrounding Alexx Ekubo’s passing

Shock and grief swept across Nollywood yesterday after reports confirmed the death of popular actor Alexx Ekubo at the age of 40.

The actor reportedly passed away on Monday night at Evercare Hospital in Lekki, Lagos, following a battle with liver cancer.

Confirming the development to Vanguard, former BBNaija star and Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) spokesperson Boma Akpore disclosed that Ekubo’s body had been moved to Ebony Vaults in Ikoyi.

Reacting to the tragedy, actor Godwin Nnadiekwe wrote on Instagram: “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 described the actor’s death as both “devastating and unbelievable,” recalling how he gave Ekubo his first movie opportunity.

According to Imasuen, the late actor often visited movie sets in Surulere while still a student, eventually earning his first role through that connection.

“That was how I gave him his first movie role that ushered him into Nollywood,” he said.

Ekubo had stayed away from social media and public appearances since December 2024, around the period his engagement reportedly collapsed.

Born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the actor was from Arochukwu in Abia State. Over the years, he built a reputation for his charm, screen presence and versatility, becoming one of Nollywood’s familiar faces.

In 2020, the United Nations listed him among the “Most Influential People of African Descent under 40” in recognition of his impact in entertainment and social development.

As news of his death spread, tributes poured in from colleagues, entertainers, fans and public figures across social media.

Actress Funke Akindele mourned the actor, expressing sadness that she never got the chance to see him again and recalling the affectionate nickname “Ore mi” he used for her.

Actor Bolanle Ninalowo offered prayers for his family, while singer Peter Okoye simply posted: “RIP.”

Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo said the news was difficult to accept, celebrating Ekubo’s life and legacy.

Actress and filmmaker Omoni Oboli described herself as devastated, referring to the late actor as her “bestie” while reflecting on the future they had planned as friends.

Media entrepreneur Mo Abudu remembered him as “loving, real, kind and always respectful,” while regretting not replying to one of his messages.

Actress Kate Henshaw also paid tribute, recalling how supportive Ekubo was during the loss of her mother.

Others reflected on concerns over his withdrawal from public life in recent months, noting that he consistently assured friends that he was okay.

Actress Yvonne Jegede said she found the news hard to process because the actor always insisted he was fine whenever she checked in on him.

Actor Kunle Remi described the loss as painful, while actress Ruth Kadiri admitted she had feared losing him despite regularly keeping in touch.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore also honoured the actor, describing him as a “rare talent” with an unforgettable screen presence.

Africans Angle News