Omanghana
Nigerian actor, filmmaker, and philanthropist Alexx Ekubo has been laid to rest in his hometown of Arochukwu, Abia State, bringing to a close weeks of mourning following his passing at the age of 40.
The final burial rites, held today Thursday, June 18, 2026, attracted an outpouring of grief and tributes from government officials, Nollywood colleagues, close friends, and admirers who gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of one of the industry’s most recognizable stars.
A Final Farewell in His Hometown
The official funeral service took place at Mary Slessor School in Amanagwu Village, Arochukwu, where family members, friends, and mourners assembled to pay their last respects.
The ceremony followed a wake-keep held the previous evening at the Ekubo family residence, providing loved ones with an opportunity to reflect on the actor’s life, career, and contributions to the entertainment industry.
After the service, Ekubo’s remains were taken to the Ekubo-Okwaraeke family compound in Ujari Village, where he was laid to rest in a private interment attended by relatives and invited guests.
Courageous Battle with Illness
Alexx Ekubo passed away on May 11, 2026, after what family sources described as a private and courageous battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer. Although he largely kept his health struggles out of the public eye, news of his death sent shockwaves across Nigeria and the wider African entertainment community.
His passing prompted an outpouring of condolences from colleagues, fans, and public figures who remembered him for his charisma, generosity, and dedication to his craft.
Nollywood Community Pays Tribute
Several prominent Nollywood personalities traveled to Abia State to honor their late colleague during the funeral ceremonies.
Actors and close friends, including IK Ogbonna, Ini Edo, and Deyemi Okanlawon, were among those present to receive the body, support the bereaved family, and celebrate Ekubo’s enduring legacy in the film industry.
Many attendees described him as a talented performer whose warmth, professionalism, and willingness to mentor younger actors made him a beloved figure both on and off screen.
Government Honors Cultural Ambassador
The Abia State Government was represented at the burial by Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, who attended on behalf of Governor Alex Otti.
In remarks delivered during the ceremony, the state recognized Alexx Ekubo as an outstanding cultural ambassador whose achievements in film and entertainment brought pride to Abia State and Nigeria as a whole. Officials praised his contributions to promoting Nigerian storytelling and elevating the global profile of Nollywood.
Fashion Designer Creates His Final Suit
One of the most emotional moments surrounding the funeral came from celebrity fashion designer Yomi Casual, a longtime friend of the late actor.
Tasked with preparing Ekubo’s final burial attire, the designer described the experience as deeply painful, saying it was one of the most difficult assignments of his career to create a suit for someone he considered a close friend.
Heartfelt Family Tribute
The actor’s younger sister, Amarachukwu Ekubo, also shared a moving tribute, describing her late brother as her “guardian angel” and expressing the profound sense of loss felt by the family.
Her emotional message resonated with many supporters online, as thousands of fans continued to post memories, condolences, and tributes celebrating Ekubo’s impact on their lives and the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Remembering Alexx Ekubo’s Legacy
Throughout his career, Alexx Ekubo earned acclaim for his performances in numerous Nollywood productions while also building a reputation as a filmmaker, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Beyond the screen, he was admired for his charitable work and efforts to support emerging talent within the creative industry.
As he is laid to rest in his ancestral home, colleagues and admirers say his influence on Nollywood and his contributions to Nigerian culture will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that his legacy lives on long after his final curtain call.
Source: Omanghana
