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The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following reports of the death of popular Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, who was said to have died after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 40.
Family sources disclosed that the actor passed away on Monday, May 11, after months away from the public eye, sparking concerns among fans and colleagues over his prolonged absence from social media and entertainment events.
Ekubo, widely admired for his versatility, charm and striking screen presence, had not made any public appearance in recent months. His last social media post was reportedly shared in December 2024, shortly after news broke that his engagement had been called off.
Known for his performances in several Nollywood productions, the actor built a reputation as one of the industry’s most recognisable faces, earning admiration from fans across Nigeria and beyond.
News of his alleged death sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, with fellow actors and industry stakeholders taking to social media to express grief and disbelief.
Veteran actress Kate Henshaw reacted emotionally, writing, “I just heard some terrible news. Father Lord, pleaseeeee.”
In a heartfelt post on her Instagram page, Funke Akindele shared a photograph of the late actor and revealed that she had tried to see him one last time before his passing but was unable to do so.
Paying tribute to her late colleague, the actress wrote: “I really tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I 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. Hmmmmmm, rest in peace, Alex.”
National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas, also mourned the actor, sharing his photograph alongside a crying emoji and the words, “I can’t relate.”
Comic actor Chinedu Ikedieze wrote, “Jesus, how?”
Sonia Ogene, visibly shaken by the reports, posted: “What am I hearing? I hope it’s not true. Alex Ekubo? I hope this is a joke or a prank.”
Actor Uzee Usman also expressed sadness over the development, writing, “Honestly, I can’t relate. Why do good souls go early? This one pains me, too.”
