Nollywood actor and model Alexx Ekubo has been laid to rest in his hometown of Arochukwu, Abia State, bringing to a close an emotional farewell attended by family members, friends, colleagues and admirers from across Nigeria.
The beloved actor, who died on May 11, 2026, at the age of 40 after a private battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer, was honoured through a series of funeral ceremonies that drew tributes from the entertainment industry and beyond.
The final burial rites began on June 17 when his remains arrived at the family residence in Ujari Village, Arochukwu, for a wake-keep ceremony. Relatives, community leaders and members of the Nollywood community gathered to pay their respects as traditional rites were observed in line with family customs.
Emotions ran high throughout the ceremony, with mourners reflecting on the actor’s life, career and impact on those around him. Videos and photographs shared online captured heartbreaking moments as family members and friends struggled to hold back tears.
A funeral service was held on Thursday at Mary Slessor School, Amanagwu Village, Arochukwu, before Ekubo was laid to rest at his family compound. The service was followed by a reception attended by guests who travelled from different parts of the country to honour his memory.
Several Nollywood stars joined the family during the burial, including IK Ogbonna, Ini Edo, Deyemi Okanlawon, and other prominent figures in the entertainment industry. Many described him as a talented actor, dedicated professional and compassionate individual who touched countless lives both on and off the screen.
The funeral activities formed part of a week-long programme announced by the Ekubo family through the actor’s official Instagram page. The schedule combined Christian worship, traditional ceremonies and tributes from colleagues, friends and fans.
Earlier, on June 10, a Service of Songs was held at The Monarch Event Centre in Lekki, Lagos, where emotional tributes, prayers and reflections highlighted his contributions to Nollywood and his humanitarian efforts.
Born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Ekubo rose to prominence after finishing as the first runner-up in the Mr Nigeria competition in 2010. The achievement helped launch successful careers in modelling and acting, eventually making him one of Nollywood’s most recognised faces.
Although he began acting in 2005, his breakthrough came with the movie Weekend Getaway, which established him as a leading actor in the industry. Over the years, he appeared in more than 100 productions, earning praise for his performances in films such as Sugar Rush, Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons, Omo Ghetto: The Saga, A Sunday Affair, Hire a Woman, Adanne and Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story.
Beyond entertainment, Ekubo was known for his philanthropy and youth empowerment initiatives. In 2020, he was recognised among the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) Top 100 Under 40, while his charitable work earned him widespread admiration.
As tributes continue to pour in, many are remembering Alexx Ekubo not only for his talent and charisma but also for the kindness and generosity that defined his life. Though his journey ended at 40, his legacy remains firmly etched in the hearts of fans, colleagues and loved ones across Africa.
