By Adesakin Adefemi
Nigeria’s entertainment industry is in mourning following the death of Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 40 after a prolonged battle with cancer.
News of his passing broke online and quickly spread across social media, drawing an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and industry leaders.
Ekubo, born on April 10, 1986, was widely regarded as one of Nollywood’s most versatile actors. He featured in several hit films and television productions, earning a reputation for his talent and screen presence.
His last Instagram post was made in December 2024, shortly after reports emerged that his engagement to U.S.-based model Fancy Acholonu had been called off.
Since the announcement, fans across Nigeria and beyond have flooded social media with tributes and condolence messages. Many described the news as shocking and heartbreaking, with some expressing disbelief that the actor had died so young.
“Is this some late April Fool joke. God, what kind of news is this? Rest in peace bro I don’t even know what to type,” wrote fan @Mr. Rekindled of AFC on X. Others shared reflections on life and mortality, with @sheismirah_bakr noting, “Indeed, every soul shall taste death. May we leave behind kindness, love, and good memories.”
Colleagues in the industry also paid tribute. Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo wrote, “Life is not only fickle, it can also feel unreal. Even as I type this, I still struggle to fully process it, and it deeply saddens me to hear this news. Rest in peace to a truly great soul.”
Actor Bolanle Ninalowo posted, “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all,” while singer Peter Okoye simply wrote, “RIP.” Actor Chinedu Ikedieze reacted with, “Jesus, how?”
Human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore described Ekubo as a “rare talent” whose presence lit up the screen effortlessly. Sowore said he had watched one of the actor’s films on an Emirates flight and had not forgotten his performance.
Ekubo’s prolonged absence from public events and social media had raised concerns among fans in recent months. His passing adds to a growing list of young Nollywood actors who have died in recent years, sparking renewed conversations about health and well-being in the industry.
Tributes continue to pour in from fans and celebrities alike, with many remembering Ekubo for his professionalism, kindness, and dedication to his craft. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced by the family.
