The Nigerian entertainment industry is still coming to terms with the loss of popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, whose sudden passing earlier this month has continued to send waves of grief across fans, colleagues, and the wider creative community. In a formal announcement released by his family, the funeral arrangements for the late actor have now been made public, with burial set to take place on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
The 40 year old actor reportedly passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Evercare Hospital in Lagos after battling complications linked to advanced metastatic kidney cancer. His death has been described by many within the industry as a painful reminder of how quickly life can change, especially for someone whose on screen presence was often associated with charm, energy, and warmth.
In a deeply emotional statement shared through his official Instagram page, the Ekubo Okwaraeke family expressed both sorrow and gratitude as they confirmed the programme of events that will lead to his final journey home. The family noted that while they are devastated by the loss, they are comforted by the overwhelming support and love they have received since his passing.
Read more on: Kate Henshaw Opens Up on Her Faded Friendship with Genevieve Nnaji
According to the announcement, the funeral activities will be held across Lagos and Abia State, reflecting both his professional life in Nigeria’s entertainment capital and his ancestral roots in Arochukwu. The arrangements have been carefully structured to allow friends, fans, and extended family members the opportunity to honour his memory in different settings.
The first official event will be a service of songs scheduled to hold in Lagos on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. It will take place at The Monarch Event Centre in Lekki and is expected to run from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Attendees have been requested to appear in white attire, a symbolic choice intended to reflect celebration, peace, and remembrance of the actor’s life rather than solely mourning his passing. The Lagos event is expected to draw a large turnout from Nollywood colleagues, media personalities, and admirers who followed his career closely over the years.
Following the Lagos ceremony, attention will shift to Abia State where the traditional and final burial rites will be held. A Christian wake keep is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Ekubo family residence located in Arochukwu. The wake is expected to be a solemn gathering of relatives, close friends, and community members who will come together to pray, reflect, and honour his legacy.
The final funeral service will take place on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Mary Slessor School in Arochukwu. This service will mark the main burial ceremony and is expected to be attended by a wide range of dignitaries, industry stakeholders, and well wishers. After the service, the actor will be laid to rest in a private interment ceremony at his family compound, in line with the wishes of the family for a more intimate conclusion to the public ceremonies.
A reception will follow at the same venue, Mary Slessor School in Amanagwu Village, where guests will gather once again to celebrate his life and share memories. The family has also requested that attendees wear white attire for this occasion as well, reinforcing the theme of honouring his life through celebration and remembrance rather than sorrow alone.
Read more on: Davido and Kizz Daniel Reach Massive Spotify Streaming Milestones
In the official statement signed on behalf of the family by Mazi Alex Oji Ekubo Okwaraeke, they expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of support they have received from across the country and beyond. The message highlighted how overwhelming the public reaction has been since news of his death broke, noting the countless messages, visits, calls, and prayers that have helped sustain the family during such a difficult period.
The family described Alexx as a beloved son, husband, brother, friend, and colleague, emphasizing that his life carried meaning far beyond his public image. They noted that the love shown by fans and the entertainment community has been a source of comfort, reinforcing the belief that his impact on people’s lives was both genuine and far reaching.
They also appealed for continued prayers, particularly for his immediate family and loved ones, as they navigate the emotional weight of his absence. The statement made it clear that while the pain remains profound, they are holding onto gratitude for the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.
Born in Port Harcourt and originally from Arochukwu in Abia State, Alexx Ekubo rose to prominence after finishing as the first runner up in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria pageant. His entry into Nollywood quickly revealed a natural talent for performance, as his charisma and screen presence made him one of the most recognizable faces in contemporary African cinema.
Read more on: BBNaija’s Phyna Reflects on Regret After Spending Winnings on Family
Over the years, he built a strong reputation in the industry, featuring in numerous films that contributed to his popularity and earned him critical recognition. In 2012, he received the Most Promising Actor award at the Best of Nollywood Awards, a milestone that further established his position as one of the rising stars of his generation.
Beyond acting, he was widely admired for his public persona, fashion sense, and ability to connect with fans across different platforms. His sudden passing has therefore left a significant void in Nollywood, with tributes continuing to pour in from colleagues, political figures, and fans who were touched by his work and personality.
As preparations continue for the final rites, the industry has been united in grief and remembrance. Plans for the white themed gatherings in both Lagos and Abia reflect a collective desire to celebrate rather than solely mourn, focusing on the joy and light he brought to screens across Africa.
Though gone too soon, Alexx Ekubo’s legacy remains firmly rooted in the hearts of many who followed his journey from a pageant finalist to a celebrated Nollywood star. His contribution to the industry, both in talent and personality, continues to be remembered with deep respect and admiration.
Rest in peace, Alexx Ekubo.
Read more on:
