Join our Telegram group and receive breaking and trending news updates directly on your phone.
Join for News Updates ✕
(C) Google/IMDb.
The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into deep mourning following the reported death of popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, who reportedly passed away at the age of 40 after a prolonged battle with cancer.
According to reports by Vanguard and The Sun Nigeria, the talented actor died on Monday, May 11, 2026, after months of illness that had kept him away from the public eye.
Ekubo’s prolonged absence from social media and entertainment events in recent months had sparked concern among fans and colleagues.
His last Instagram post was made in December 2024, shortly after reports emerged that his relationship and engagement to US-based model Fancy Acholonu had ended.
News of his death sent shockwaves across the country, with an outpouring of grief and tributes from actors, musicians, media personalities, activists and admirers who remembered him as a gifted performer, a cheerful colleague and a kind-hearted friend.
Popular actress Funke Akindele expressed deep sorrow in an emotional tribute shared on Instagram.
“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,”she wrote.
Actor Bolanle Ninalowo also mourned the late star, praying for strength for his family and loved ones, while singer Peter Okoye simply wrote, “RIP.”
Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo described the news as difficult to process.
“Life is not only fickle, it can also feel unreal Rest in peace to a truly great soul. You came, you saw, and you conquered. We are proud of the life you lived and the legacy you leave behind,”he wrote.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore described Ekubo as “a rare talent whose presence lit up the screen effortlessly,” while broadcaster Oseni Rufai wrote briefly, “Rest well Alex.”
Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe said the news left him heartbroken.
“I’m struggling to find the words. Nollywood has lost a rare soul,” he lamented.
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong noted that Ekubo’s contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry would remain unforgettable and continue to inspire younger actors.
Widely admired for his charisma, versatility and striking screen presence, Alexx Ekubo built a successful career in Nollywood with appearances in numerous blockbuster films and television productions.
Over the years, he became one of the industry’s most recognisable faces, earning admiration from fans across Africa and beyond.
Despite public curiosity about his private life and unmarried status, the actor had often maintained that he was focused on his career and personal growth.
His relationship with Fancy Acholonu had once captured widespread public attention after the couple announced their engagement in 2021 before later calling off their planned wedding.
In 2023, Acholonu publicly apologized to the actor and reaffirmed her affection for him.
The reported death of Alexx Ekubo marks a painful loss to Nollywood and the broader Nigerian entertainment community, where he was celebrated not only for his talent but also for his warmth, style and humility.
He leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a career that touched millions of hearts.
According to BBC,the award-winning actor was in a hospital in Lagos when he passed away on Monday night, according to local media. He was 40 years old.
Ekubo was best known for his roles in the Weekend Getaway and the music video titled Johnny by Yemi Alade in 2013. He had won many awards and accolades for his work in the entertainment industry and humanitarian efforts.
While his family and management are yet to issue a statement, a member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors told the BBC his death had left the association in shock. Tributes have been pouring in from fans and friends in Nigeria’s film industry, known as Nollywood.
–Vanguard news,BBC
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
Strategic Media Partnership for Growth and Reputation: Introducing The Reporters
The Reporters is a dynamic online news publication committed to delivering credible, timely, and impactful journalism across Nigeria and beyond. With a strong foundation in professional reporting and editorial integrity, the platform focuses on social, economic, political, and human development issues that shape public discourse. Backed by decades of journalistic experience, The Reporters offers a trusted voice that informs, educates, entertains, and influences a diverse and engaged audience.
For members of the business community, The Reporters provides a strategic platform to enhance visibility, build brand credibility, and connect with target markets. Through well-crafted news, features, interviews, sponsored content, and digital amplification, businesses can showcase their products, services, and innovations to a wider audience. This engagement not only drives patronage but also positions organisations as key contributors to economic growth and development.
Political actors and aspirants also stand to benefit significantly from partnering with The Reporters. As the 2027 elections approach, the platform offers an opportunity for politicians to effectively communicate their vision, programmes, and track records to the electorate. Through balanced profiling, issue-based coverage, and reputation management content, The Reporters helps shape public perception and strengthens candidates’ connection with voters.
Beyond visibility, The Reporters plays a crucial role in image laundering and perception management, presenting clients in a favourable, credible, and issue-driven light while maintaining ethical standards. By highlighting achievements, clarifying controversies, and projecting leadership qualities, the platform supports politicians in building trust and acceptance among constituents, which are critical assets in any electoral contest.
Engaging with The Reporters is therefore not just about publicity, it is about strategic communication for mutual benefit. Partners gain access to a credible media channel with the wide reach of The Reporters while it continues to fulfill its mandate of promoting development-oriented narratives. We invite stakeholders in both business and political spheres to collaborate with us in shaping informed opinions, driving growth, and advancing democratic engagement.
Prospective clients can reach us via WhatsApp: 08032901058 or email: ahmeddada008@gmail.com.
- Management
