LAGOS, NIGERIA — Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, celebrated for his roles in romantic comedies and dramas, passed away on May 12, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria, at the age of 40. His death follows a protracted battle with cancer, as confirmed by local media sources. Ekubo’s career in the entertainment industry began with his win in the 2010 Mr.
Nigeria contest, which launched him into the spotlight. His versatility as an actor was showcased in films like “Weekend Getaway, The Wedding Party, Kiss and Tell, “and “Jenifa’s Diary. “Beyond his acting achievements, Ekubo was a prominent humanitarian.
In 2020, he was recognized as one of the ‘Most Influential People of African Descent’under 40 for his contributions to entertainment and social development in Africa.
In 2018, Nigeria’s First Lady honored him with a Special Recognition Award for his role in the country’s entertainment industry.
The entertainment industry has been flooded with tributes, with fellow actor and producer Funke Akindele expressing her sorrow on social media. “To see you one more time but guess you knew best, “Akindele wrote, adding, “You kept telling me you are fine. “Ekubo had stepped away from social media in December 2024, sparking health concerns among his fans.
His last post on social media seemed to convey optimism, suggesting a resilient battle against his illness. His sudden departure from the public eye and the silence from his management and family led to speculation and anxiety among his followers. Ekubo’s cause of death was stage 4 liver cancer, revealed by Nigerian filmmaker Stanley Ontop.
He had been diagnosed with the disease in 2024, and his passing marks the conclusion of a fierce battle against the illness.
As the Nollywood industry mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, Ekubo’s legacy endures through his performances and contributions to the African entertainment landscape. His passing leaves a void, but his spirit will continue to inspire future generations of actors and entertainers.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: BBC Africa
