Nollywood Mourns the Passing of Alexx Ekubo: A Community in Grief
Curated by Emelets Blog | Originally reported by Dele Abiola for TheNet.ng
The Nigerian entertainment industry is in deep mourning following the recent passing of beloved actor Alexx Ekubo. News of his death has sent shockwaves through Nollywood, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues and fans alike.
Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke, born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, reportedly passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, after a battle with kidney cancer. His death has been met with profound sadness, particularly given his absence from social media since late 2024, which had already sparked concern among his followers [1].
A Community United in Sorrow
The article highlights the raw emotions expressed by many Nollywood stars, underscoring the close-knit nature of the industry:
- Omoni Oboli, a close friend of Ekubo, expressed her devastation: “I’m so upset! Who will help me fight death? This is too much! How are we supposed to move on? How do we say goodbye? I’m devastated. My bestie! Why? We had a plan! Where do I start from?” [1].
- Mo Abudu, CEO of EbonyLife Group, shared her regret over a missed connection: “We hadn’t spoken in a while… I never imagined there wouldn’t be another chance… My spirit is broken” [1].
- Funke Akindele echoed the industry’s sentiment, writing, “I tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best. Ore mi — like you fondly called me — I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together” [1].
- Kunle Remi and Ruth Kadiri also shared their heartbreak, with Kadiri admitting she had been dreading this day, having checked on him regularly [1].
- Godwin Nnadiekwe, a colleague, revealed the poignant detail that Ekubo had already prepared his will, stating, “To think you already prepared your Will — it’s heartbroken, I can’t quite describe. Nollywood has lost a rare soul” [1].
Veteran filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen, who gave Ekubo his first movie role, described the loss as “devastating and unbelievable.” Many others, including Kate Henshaw, Yvonne Jegede, Bolanle Ninalowo, Ini Dima-Okojie, and Rita Dominic, also paid tribute across various platforms [1].
Emelets Blog Takeaway: The outpouring of grief from the Nollywood community for Alexx Ekubo underscores the deep bonds formed within creative industries. His passing, particularly after a period of public concern, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental and physical health awareness among public figures. It also highlights how deeply fans connect with artists, making their loss a collective experience for many.
References:
[1] Abiola, Dele. “”Rest in Peace, Ikuku” — Nollywood Stars break down over Alexx Ekubo’s death.” TheNet.ng, 13 May 2026, https://thenet.ng/nollywood-stars-break-down-over-alexx-ekubos-death/.
