Nollywood actor and model Alexx Ekubo has died at the age of 40 following complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
His family announced his passing in a statement posted on Thursday on the actor’s verified Instagram page.
The statement read, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, son, brother and friend, Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke.
“After a brief but courageous battle, Alexx passed away at Evercare Hospital due to complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
“Throughout this difficult journey, he bore his pain with remarkable strength, unwavering faith and enduring hope, believing that one day his testimony would be shared with the world.
“During this deeply painful time, we humbly ask for privacy and prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul, and for all who mourn this immense loss.
“Further details regarding funeral arrangements and other family matters will be communicated in due course. We sincerely thank everyone for the love, support, prayers and understanding extended to the family throughout this period.”
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The news has sent shockwaves across the Nigerian film industry, with colleagues, friends and fans taking to social media to pay tribute to the late actor.
Funke Akindele, in a message shared on her Instagram Story, wrote: “Hmmmmmm. Rest in peace, Alex. I tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace, Alex. ‘Ore mi’, like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together. Rest in peace, Alex.”
Bolanle Ninalowo also reacted, writing: “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.”
Godwin Nnadiekwe expressed his grief, saying: “I’m struggling to find the words. This news has truly broken me. Nollywood has lost a rare soul. Rest well, my friend.”
Other celebrities who mourned the actor include AY Makun, Omoni Oboli, Mo Abudu, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Kate Henshaw, Yvonne Jegede, Ruth Kadiri, Yul Edochie and Peter Okoye.
Born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Ekubo hailed from Arochukwu in Abia State, South-East Nigeria. He attended Federal Government College Daura, Katsina State before studying Law at University of Calabar.
Before establishing himself as an actor, Ekubo was the first runner-up at the Mr Nigeria 2010 pageant, which launched his modelling career.
