The lights have dimmed on one of Nollywood’s brightest stars. Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke, the charismatic actor and former Mr. Nigeria runner-up, has passed away at the age of 40. The news, which broke late Tuesday, May 12, 2026, was confirmed by close associates and colleagues, plunging the multi-billion naira film industry into a state of profound grief.
A Quiet Departure
Reports indicate that Ekubo passed away in the early hours of Monday following what has been described as a courageous, private battle with illness. The actor, known for his infectious energy and “lover boy” roles, had been noticeably absent from the social scene and social media since late 2024. While fans initially speculated that his hiatus was a sabbatical following a public broken engagement, it has now emerged that the actor was prioritizing his health away from the prying eyes of the public.
Colleagues React
The news was met with immediate disbelief across social media platforms. Funke Akindele, a long-time collaborator and friend, took to Instagram to express her heartbreak: “Hmmmmmm. Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time but guess you knew best. ‘Ore mi’ like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared.”
Veteran actress Kate Henshaw and AGN President Emeka Rollas also expressed their shock, with Rollas simply stating, “I can’t relate,” a common Nigerian expression of deep denial in the face of tragedy.
From Pageantry to Primetime
Born on April 10, 1986, in Arochukwu, Abia State, Ekubo’s journey to stardom was meteoric. A Law graduate from the University of Calabar, he first captured the national imagination in 2010 when he emerged as the first runner-up in the Mr. Nigeria contest. However, it was the silver screen that truly embraced him. From his breakout role in Weekend Getaway (2012) to his comedic genius in Omo Ghetto: The Saga, Ekubo proved he was more than just a handsome face—he was a versatile talent who could balance drama and slapstick with ease.
As of the time of this report, the family has yet to release an official funeral schedule. However, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) is expected to announce a national day of tribute to honor a man who defined a decade of Nigerian cinema.
