By Amofokhai Williams
Popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has reportedly died at the age of 40, throwing the Nigerian entertainment industry into mourning.
News of the actor’s death surfaced on Tuesday, with several of his colleagues and close associates expressing shock and grief over the development.
However, as of the time of filing this report, no official statement had been issued by his family regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.
Leading actress Funke Akindele appeared to confirm the tragic development in an emotional tribute shared on her Instagram story.
“Hmmmmmm. Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time but guess you knew best,” she wrote.
“‘Ore mi’ like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together. Rest in peace, Alex.”
Actor Bolanle Ninalowo also mourned Ekubo, praying for strength for the late actor’s family and colleagues.
“Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all,” he wrote.
Another actor, Godwin Nnadiekwe, described the news as heartbreaking, saying he struggled to come to terms with the loss.
“I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me. Nollywood has lost a rare soul,” he wrote.
Reports circulating online claimed the actor had been battling an undisclosed illness in recent months, although this has not been independently confirmed by his family.
Ekubo, born Alex Ekubo-Okwaraeke, rose to prominence after emerging first runner-up in the 2010 Mr Nigeria contest before becoming one of Nollywood’s most recognisable faces in romantic dramas and comedy films.
The actor featured in several successful productions, including Weekend Getaway, Lagos Cougars, The First Lady, A Sunday Affair and Omo Ghetto: The Saga. He was widely admired for his charisma, fashion style and versatility on screen.
Over the years, Ekubo built a strong fan base across Africa and beyond, earning recognition as one of Nollywood’s most influential contemporary actors.
His reported death has triggered an outpouring of tributes across social media, with fans, colleagues and admirers describing him as talented, humble and full of life.
Further details surrounding his death are still expected from family members and official representatives.
