Nollywood actor and filmmaker IK Ogbonna has paid a heartfelt tribute to his late friend and colleague, Alex Ekubo, nearly two months after the actor’s passing.
Ogbonna broke his silence on Tuesday with an emotional Instagram post, revealing the deep pain he has endured since losing someone he described as his best friend and brother.
Alex Ekubo died on May 12, 2026, after complications from advanced metastatic kidney cancer. His family announced that he passed away at Evercare Hospital in Lagos after spending hours on life support.
Throughout the funeral and burial ceremonies, IK Ogbonna chose not to make any public statement, leading many fans to believe he was grieving privately. His latest message has now offered insight into the emotional toll of the loss.
“On May 11th, I lost my best friend and brother, Alexx. Nothing prepares you for a loss like that,” Ogbonna wrote.
Reflecting on the experience, the actor said losing Ekubo had changed his understanding of life and death. He admitted spending the past two months questioning life, faith and why someone so full of life could suddenly become a memory.
He recalled the dreams they shared together, including plans to grow old, build businesses, make films, travel the world and watch their families grow.
“Alexx and I spoke about everything. We laughed about growing old. We dreamed about businesses, movies we wanted to create, places we wanted to travel and the lives we imagined for our children. We truly believed we had time. Neither of us imagined one of us would leave first.”
Despite his grief, Ogbonna said he has found comfort in his faith, believing that some questions cannot be answered in this life. He described Ekubo as a man who lived with purpose, loved deeply and impacted countless lives.
He urged people to cherish their loved ones while they still can, encouraging them to forgive quickly, appreciate family and friends, and live intentionally.
“If there is one thing I hope you take away from this, it is this: love people while they can still hear you. Tell them you appreciate them while they can still smile back. Check on your friends. Spend time with your family. Laugh more. Hold grudges less.”
Concluding his tribute, Ogbonna promised to honour his friend’s memory by continuing to live purposefully and striving to leave the world better than he found it.
“Until we meet again, my brother. Rest well. I love you, always.”
