The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into a state of deep mourning following the confirmed death of award winning actor and model, Alexx Ekubo.
According to reports, the 40 year old actor passed away on Tuesday afternoon at a hospital in Lagos. Sources close to the family indicate that Ekubo had been battling health complications related to kidney cancer. It is reported that he was placed on life support for several hours on Monday before tragically succumbing to the illness today.
Born on April 10, 1986, Alexx Ekubo was a native of Arochukwu, Abia State. He rose to fame as the first runner up at the 2010 Mr. Nigeria contest and quickly became a staple of the “New Nollywood” era. Known for his impeccable fashion sense, comedic timing, and charismatic screen presence, he starred in over 100 films, including: The Bling Lagosians; Omo Ghetto: The Saga; A Sunday Affair; Weekend Getaway (which earned him a Best Actor in a Supporting Role nomination at the 2013 AMVCAs); The Long Silence, among others.
The news provides a somber explanation for Ekubo’s prolonged absence from the public eye. Fans had been growing increasingly concerned as the actor had been completely inactive on social media since December 30, 2024. While rumors had circulated regarding his health in 2025, his inner circle had largely maintained privacy until today’s announcement.
The industry has reacted with shock and grief. Fellow actress Oma Nnadi expressed her heartbreak on Instagram, stating, “Nollywood has lost a rare soul… this wasn’t the plan.”
Alexx Ekubo, often referred to as “Chief Ikuku,” leaves behind a legacy of humanitarian work and a filmography that defined a decade of Nigerian cinema.
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