LAGOS, Nigeria — Tributes are being paid to the popular Nollywood actor and filmmaker Alex Ekubo following reports of his death at age 40.
The news was confirmed on Tuesday by several high-profile colleagues, including actress Funke Akindele and Bolanle Ninalowo. While his family has yet to release an official statement, the news has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian film industry.
‘I Tried to Reach Out’
In a poignant tribute shared on social media, Funke Akindele revealed she had attempted to reconnect with the actor shortly before his passing.
“I really tried to reach out to see you one more time but guess you knew best,” she wrote on Instagram. Addressing him as Ore mi (my friend), she added: “I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together. Rest in peace, Alex.”
From the United States, actor Bolanle Ninalowo also expressed his grief, writing: “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.”
Months of Speculation
The actor’s death follows a prolonged period of absence from the public eye, which had sparked significant concern among his fanbase.
- Social Media Silence: Ekubo had been largely inactive on Instagram since late 2024.
- Recent Appearance: A viral video showed the actor looking noticeably slimmer as he interacted with children, sparking renewed speculation about his health.
- Reassurance: Last year, his close friend and fellow actor IK Ogbonna had sought to reassure the public, stating that Ekubo was simply “taking a leave” from social media to focus on personal projects.
A Career in the Spotlight
Known for his “lover boy” roles and charismatic screen presence, Ekubo was a staple of modern Nollywood. In recent years, however, he had shifted his focus away from the limelight.
He made headlines in 2021 following the high-profile collapse of his engagement to model Fancy Acholonu. In subsequent interviews, he maintained that he was prioritising his career and financial stability over his personal life.
As news of his passing spreads, fans and peers have begun sharing highlights of his decade-long career, remembering him as a versatile talent who helped shape the contemporary Nigerian cinema landscape.
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