The Nigerian movie industry has been thrown into mourning following reports that popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has died at the age of 40 after an alleged prolonged battle with illness.
According to reports circulating on Tuesday, the actor passed away on Monday, May 11, after spending several months away from the public eye due to health-related challenges.
Although the actor’s family had yet to issue an official statement as of the time of filing this report, tributes from colleagues and associates in the entertainment industry continued to pour in on social media.
Among the first to react was actress Funke Akindele, who expressed grief over the development in a post shared on her Instagram story.
“Hmmm… Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time but guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace, Alex,” she wrote.
Actor Bolanle Ninalowo also mourned the late movie star, praying for strength for his family and loved ones.
Similarly, actor Godwin Nnadiekwe described the news as heartbreaking, saying Nollywood had lost “a rare soul.”
“I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me. Nollywood has lost a rare soul,” he wrote.
Ekubo had remained largely absent from social media and public appearances for an extended period, sparking concerns among fans and colleagues. His last known social media post was reportedly shared in December 2024.
Widely regarded as one of Nollywood’s most recognisable faces, the actor gained prominence through his roles in romantic comedies and drama films, including the hit movie Weekend Getaway.
He was also first runner-up at the Mr Nigeria 2010 competition and later became one of the industry’s most sought-after actors.
In 2020, Ekubo was named among the “Most Influential People of African Descent” under 40 by the United Nations in recognition of his contributions to entertainment and social development across Africa.
