The Nigerian entertainment industry has been plunged into mourning following the death of popular Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo.
The 40-year-old star reportedly passed away after a battle with cancer, leaving fans and colleagues devastated .According to reports, the actor died on Monday, May 11, at Evercare Hospital in Lekki, Lagos.
Details indicate he had been battling a severe health crisis related to cancer before his death .Former Big Brother Naija star and Director of Communication for the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Boma Akpore, confirmed the news to Vanguard, stating that the actor’s body had been moved to Ebony Vaults in Ikoyi.
Alex Ekubo’s Career Built on Charisma and Talent
Born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Alex Ekubo’s journey to stardom began with a legal education, he studied law at the University of Calabar—but his true calling was always performance.
Before breaking into film, he gained initial fame as the first runner-up in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria contest. That platform provided the launchpad for a prolific acting career that would span over a decade and include more than 100 film credits.
His breakout role came early in his career, but it was his performance in the 2013 film “Weekend Getaway” that earned him the Best Supporting Actor award at the Best of Nollywood Awards, signaling his arrival as a serious talent.
Over the years, Ekubo became a familiar face in romantic comedies and dramas. He featured prominently in commercially successful films such as “Omo Ghetto: The Saga” (2020), “A Sunday Affair” (2023), “Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story,” and “Hire a Woman.
His most recent project, “Adanne,” was released in February 2026 .Beyond the screen, he was recognized for his humanitarian efforts, receiving the Nigerian National Award of Excellence for his charity work and being inducted into the United Nations’ Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) Top 100 under 40 Hall of Fame in 2020.
A Sudden Absence and Silent Struggle
Concerns about the actor’s health had been mounting for over a year. His last social media post was reportedly shared in December 2024. Close friends had previously tried to reassure the public about his wellbeing.
Actor Ikechukwu Ogbonna had stated that Ekubo was simply taking a break from social media to focus on personal projects. However, a viral clip showing the actor looking noticeably thinner had reignited public worry.
Tributes Pour In for Ikuku
As news of his passing spread, tributes flooded social media, with colleagues describing him as a “rare soul” and mourning the loss of a gentle giant.·
Funke Akindele, sharing a tribute on Instagram, revealed she had tried to reach him before he passed. She wrote: “I really tried to reach out to see you one more time but guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace Alex.
Ore mi’ like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together” .· Omoni Oboli, who described the actor as her “bestie,” posted emotionally: “I’m so upset! Who will help me fight death?… We had a plan! Where do I start from?”
Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) shared a heartfelt tribute, writing: “You came, you saw, and you conquered. Rest in peace to a truly great soul. We are proud of the life you lived, the journey you embraced, and the legacy you leave behind”
Kate Henshaw, Yvonne Jegede, and Kunle Remi also expressed shock and grief, with many recalling how he had quietly reassured them that he was “fine” when they checked in on him.
Legacy of Laughter and Light
Alex Ekubo leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a reputation for kindness. Colleagues recall him as respectful, vibrant, and deeply committed to his craft.
His former colleague, Godwin Nnadiekwe, captured the shock felt by many: “I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me… To think you already prepared your will—it’s a heartbreak I can’t quite describe.
He is survived by his family and a grieving entertainment community. As one fan noted in a tribute, Nollywood has lost a shining light long before its time. As of press time, the family had not yet issued an official statement regarding funeral arrangements