On Tuesday, May 12, 2026, news filtered in that popular Nollywood actor, Alex Ekubo, has died.
Ekubo reportedly died at the age of 40.
His death was confirmed on Tuesday by his colleagues and close allies Funke Akindele, Bolanle Ninalowo, and Godwin Nnadiekwe.
Sharing on her Instagram story, Akindele wrote, “Hmmmmmm. Rest in peace, Alex.
“I 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 together.
“Rest in Peace, Alexx.”
WITHIN NIGERIA gathered that the young Nollywood star died of cancer.
Our reporter took a look at his life and time.
Biography
Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke was born on April, 1986.
He was best known for his roles in romantic comedies and dramas in Nollywood films.
However, his prominence came into limelight in the Nollywood blockbuster, Weekend Getaway.
In 2020, he was named one of the “Most Influential People of African Descent munder 40 by the United Nations, for his contributions to entertainment and social development across the continent.
Early life and education
Ekubo was a native of Arochukwu in Abia state.
He attended Federal Government College Daura, Katsina state.He studied law at the University of Calabar , Cross River State.
He was also awarded an Honorary Degree in Arts & Culture from the Institut Supérieur de Communication et de Gestion (ISCG University) Cotonou, Republic of Benin, 2021.
His career
He debuted in a minor role in Lancelot Oduwa Imaseun’s Sinners in the house (2003). He later starred in Afamefuna, Power of 1.
Others include, A Sunday Affair, Omo Ghetto, The Saga, The Bling Lagosians, Zero Hour etc.
His performances have been praised for blending humour, emotional depth, and commercial appeal.
With over a 100 films credit, Ekubo worked with leading Nollywood filmmakers and was increasingly recognized as a cultural bridge between African and diaspora cinema. His appearances at film festivals across the world and work with streaming platforms giants positioned him as a global African talent.
Philanthropy and advocacy
Aside entertainment, Ekubo was a humanitarian and philanthropist youth advocate.
He also participated in numerous charitable initiatives and outreach programs across Nigeria and the West African region. In 2020 He received a certificate of excellence from the Sapio Club SGD (Sustainable Goals Development) for an exemplary contribution to the African Entertainment & Humanitarian Effort.
In 2021, he was awarded the Global Social Giving Actor of the Year by the Nigerian National Awards for his charity efforts
Ekubo was recognized in 2023 as the Rotary Youth Ambassador of the year under Rotary International District 9142.
Personal life and death
Ekubo was known for his distinctive fashion presence, and was frequently featured on best-dressed lists across Africa. He maintained a private lifestyle and often used his platform to advocate for social causes and youth empowerment.
Filmography
Some of his films are ladies Gang (2011) as Jude; Aina (2011) as Handsome Man, Weekend Getaway (2012) as Andre Dikeh
12 May 2026, True Citizens (2012), In the Cupboard (2012) as Tega, Dream Walker (2013) as Dream Man, Keeping my Man (2013) as Rasheed, Champagne (2014) as Tare Hopewell, Single, Married and Complicated (2014), Ifedolapo (2014)as Richard and Gold Diggin (2014) (with Yvonne Nelson and Rukky Sanda ) as Chris.
Others include Undercover Lover (2015) as Collins, All that Glitters (2015)
The First Lady (2015) (with Omoni Oboli) as Obama, Gbomo Gbomo Express (2015) as Hubby, Luke of Lies (2015) as Luke, Death Toll (2015), Entreat (2016) as Michael Olawale, The Other Side of the Coin (2016)and numerous others.
Sowore others mourn Ekubo
Human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has paid tribute on X, describing Ekubo as a “rare talent.”
Ih his words, “My profound condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Nollywood star Alexx Ekubo, who I understand passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer.
“I never met him personally, but I still cannot forget a movie of his I watched on an Emirates flight from New York to Dubai en route to Nairobi. He was a rare talent whose presence lit up the screen effortlessly. May he rest in power,” Sowore wrote.
However, popular actress Funke Akindele also shared an emotional message on her Instagram story, mourning the late actor.
According to her “Hmmmmmm. Rest in peace, Alex. I 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 together. Rest in Peace, Alex.”
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong also expressed condolences, noting that the late actor’s contributions to the entertainment industry would not be forgotten.
“Your contributions to the entertainment industry will not be forgotten in a hurry.
“You made significant strides and your memory will continue to inspire younger actors.
“My sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Alex. Life is indeed ephemeral,” he wrote.
