Nollywood actor and model Alexx Ekubo has died at the age of 40 following complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
His family announced his passing in a statement posted on Wednesday on the actor’s verified Instagram page.
The statement read, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, son, brother and friend, Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke.
“After a brief but courageous battle, Alexx passed away at Evercare Hospital due to complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
“Throughout this difficult journey, he bore his pain with remarkable strength, unwavering faith and enduring hope, believing that one day his testimony would be shared with the world.
“During this deeply painful time, we humbly ask for privacy and prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul, and for all who mourn this immense loss.
“Further details regarding funeral arrangements and other family matters will be communicated in due course. We sincerely thank everyone for the love, support, prayers and understanding extended to the family throughout t
his period.”The death of Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has triggered an outpouring of grief across the entertainment industry, with colleagues, friends and fans paying emotional tributes to the late movie star.
Actress Funke Akindele, in a message shared on Instagram, said she had hoped to see him one more time before his passing.
“Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best,” she wrote, describing him as “Ore mi” and recalling the memorable moments they shared together.
Actor Bolanle Ninalowo also mourned Ekubo, praying for strength for his family and loved ones.
Filmmaker Godwin Nnadiekwe described the news as heartbreaking, saying Nollywood had lost “a rare soul.”
Other celebrities who reacted to the actor’s death include AY Makun, Omoni Oboli, Mo Abudu, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Kate Henshaw, Yvonne Jegede, Ruth Kadiri, Yul Edochie and Peter Okoye.
Born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Ekubo was from Arochukwu in Abia State. He attended Federal Government College, Daura, before studying Law at the University of Calabar.
Before gaining fame as an actor, he emerged first runner-up at the Mr Nigeria 2010 competition, a breakthrough that boosted his modelling career.
Ekubo made his acting debut in 2003 with Sinners in the House and later became widely recognised for his role in Weekend Getaway.
Over the years, he featured in several successful productions, including The Bling Lagosians, Omo Ghetto: The Saga, A Sunday Affair, Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story and The Blood Covenant.
He also became a familiar face on television through shows like Tinsel and AY’s Crib.
Beyond acting, Ekubo built a reputation as a producer, host, motivational speaker and philanthropist, earning admiration for his support of youth-focused and humanitarian causes.
His passing marks another painful loss for Nollywood following the deaths of stars such as Junior Pope Odonwodo, John Okafor, Amaechi Muonagor, Sisi Q
uadri and Onyeka Onwenu.The news has sent shockwaves across the Nigerian film industry, with colleagues, friends and fans taking to social media to pay tribute to the actor.
