Entertainment
Nollywood Actor Alex Ekubo Dies at 40, Real Cause of Death Revealed
The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of popular Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, who reportedly passed away at the age of 40 after a prolonged battle with cancer.
According to reports by The Sun Nigeria, the actor died on Monday, May 11, 2026, after months of health complications linked to stage 4 liver cancer.
The heartbreaking development has sparked an outpouring of tributes from celebrities, colleagues, fans, and public figures across social media, with many remembering Ekubo as a gifted actor, loyal friend, and one of Nollywood’s most charismatic screen stars.
Real Cause of Alex Ekubo’s Death Revealed
Reacting to widespread speculation surrounding the actor’s passing, Nollywood filmmaker Stanley Ontop disclosed that Ekubo had secretly battled stage 4 liver cancer since 2024.
In a now-viral Instagram post, Stanley revealed that the late actor underwent treatment and later received a liver transplant. Although he reportedly showed signs of recovery and briefly returned to work, complications later developed after the transplanted liver failed again.
According to him, Ekubo’s condition worsened in recent months before he eventually passed away.
He wrote:
“Alex was diagnosed with stage 4 liver cancer in 2024. After undergoing treatment and a liver transplant, he briefly returned to work. Unfortunately, the liver failed again and complications arose, and his condition deteriorated until his passing.”
He also appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified reports and urged Nigerians to respect the privacy of the actor’s grieving family.
Celebrities, Colleagues Pay Emotional Tributes
Several top Nigerian celebrities took to social media to mourn the late actor and celebrate his legacy.
Popular actress Funke Akindele shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, recalling their friendship and cherished moments together.
Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo described the news as difficult to process, praising Ekubo for the remarkable life and career he built in Nollywood.
Singer Peter Okoye simply wrote “RIP,” while actor Bolanle Ninalowo prayed for strength for the family and the entertainment industry.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore also described Ekubo as “a rare talent whose presence lit up the screen effortlessly.”
Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe said the news broke him emotionally, adding that the late actor had reportedly prepared his will before his death.
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong noted that Ekubo’s contributions to Nollywood would continue to inspire younger actors.
Alex Ekubo’s Career and Personal Life
Widely regarded as one of Nollywood’s most recognisable faces, Alex Ekubo built a successful acting career with appearances in numerous blockbuster films and television productions.
Known for his versatility, fashion sense, charisma, and commanding screen presence, he became a fan favourite and earned admiration across Africa’s entertainment industry.
The actor’s personal life also attracted public attention over the years, especially his relationship with US-based model Fancy Acholonu. The pair got engaged in 2021 before their planned wedding was later called off.
In 2023, Acholonu publicly apologised to the actor and reaffirmed her love for him, saying he still had her heart.
Before his death, Ekubo had occasionally addressed questions about his unmarried status, explaining in past social media posts that he was focused on building his career and financial stability.
Nollywood Mourns a Screen Icon
The death of Alex Ekubo marks a major loss for Nollywood and Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Fans and colleagues continue to flood social media with condolence messages, prayers, and memories of the late actor, whose impact on African cinema remains undeniable.
He is survived by family members, friends, colleagues, and millions of fans across the world.
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