An emotional and solemn day for the African film industry as the beloved “Chief Ikuku” begins his final journey, surrounded by an all-white procession of his closest peers and family.
The Nigerian entertainment industry fell into deep mourning as popular Nollywood actor and humanitarian Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke was officially laid to rest. The final burial rites took place at his family residence in Ujari Village, Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State, bringing an emotional close to his week-long funeral ceremonies.
The actor passed away on May 11, 2026, at Evercare Hospital in Lagos at the age of 40, following a private, courageous battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer. True to his vibrant spirit, the Ekubo-Okwaraeke family requested an all-white procession, celebrating what they described as “a life beautifully lived and deeply impactful.”
A Gathering of Stars and Dignitaries
The funeral service, which was held at the Mary Slessor School in Amanagwu Village, drew a massive crowd of entertainment heavyweights, top politicians, and business leaders who traveled far to pay their respects:
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Industry Peers in Attendance: Close friends and colleagues including IK Ogbonna, Mike Godson, Ini Edo, Nancy Isime, Bimbo Ademoye, AY Makun, and billionaire businessman Obi Cubana were present, many visibly moved to tears as the casket arrived.
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State Recognition: Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by his Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, described the actor’s passing as a “monumental loss” to the nation. He praised Alexx as a true cultural ambassador who used his immense talent and determination to project a positive image of Abia State and Nigeria to the global stage.
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The Spiritual Message: Preaching at the funeral service, Pastor Eno Jerry Eze (Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International) urged the grieving congregation to focus on building enduring legacies, emphasizing that the true measure of a life is not its duration, but its impact and positive service to others.
“More Than an Employer” — Moving Tributes
One of the most heart-wrenching moments of the wake-keep came from Alexx’s long-time personal bodyguard, affectionately known as “Commando.” In a tearful tribute, he described the late actor as a generous, kind-hearted man who treated everyone around him like family, rather than mere employees.
Before his final journey home to Abia State, a star-studded Service of Songs was also held on June 10 at The Monarch Event Centre in Lekki, Lagos, giving his urban fanbase and industry family an initial opportunity to celebrate his legacy.
Alexx Ekubo’s passing leaves a massive, irreplaceable void in Nollywood. Known for his suave charm, impeccable comedic timing, and iconic best-dressed red carpet appearances, he was a defining figure of his generation. This marks the definitive end of an era for a star who balanced Hollywood-level glamour with profound grassroots charity and youth advocacy.
