Nollywood Grieves: Alexx Ekubo's Abia Burial Draws Tributes, Posthumous Film Controversy
Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has been laid to rest in his hometown of Arochukwu, Abia State, following his death at age 40 from kidney cancer. Abia State Governor Alex Otti described Ekubo's passing as a profound loss, praising him as a cultural ambassador and inspiration. However, the burial was quickly followed by controversy surrounding actress Omoni Oboli's decision to release a film featuring the late actor, with some critics deeming the timing inappropriate.
Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has been laid to rest in his hometown of Aziukwukwa Ujari Village, Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State, bringing to an end weeks of mourning since his death on May 11 at the age of 40. Ekubo passed away due to complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer, a battle he fought against stage 4 kidney cancer.
The actor's funeral rites commenced with a poignant service of songs held on June 10 at The Monarch Event Centre in Lekki, Lagos. This event saw a gathering of colleagues, friends, and well-wishers, all dressed in white attire, coming together to honour his memory and mourn his untimely demise. On Wednesday, his remains were transported in a convoy of vehicles and arrived at the family compound in Arochukwu, where family members and friends held a wake, offering tributes to the late actor. In adherence to local tradition, younger members of the family respectfully escorted his remains into the compound, carrying his portrait.
The final funeral rites took place on Thursday, with the main funeral service held at Mary Slessor School, also known as Mary Slessor Technical College Ground, in Arochukwu. Following the service, Alexx Ekubo was interred at the Ekubo Okwaraeke family residence, with a reception immediately held afterward. The solemn occasion was attended by a host of dignitaries and entertainment industry figures, including actors Nancy Isime, Stan Nze, IK Ogbonna, Bimbo Ademoye, Deyemi Okanlawon, Omoni Oboli, and Ayo Makun. Prominent individuals such as businessman Obi Cubana, Abia State Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy Matthew Ekwuribe, and the Chief of Staff to the Abia State Governor, Caleb Ajagba, were also present to pay their last respects.
Abia State Governor Alex Otti described Alexx Ekubo's death as a profound loss to Abia State, Nigeria’s entertainment industry, and millions of admirers worldwide. Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Caleb Ajagba, during the funeral service, Governor Otti emphasized that Mr. Ekubo was more than just an entertainer; he served as a cultural ambassador who proudly projected the image of Abia State and Nigeria on the global stage. The governor highlighted Ekubo’s journey from Arochukwu to becoming an internationally recognized figure across Africa, noting that his life exemplified resilience, creativity, and excellence. He stated that Ekubo's success story remained a powerful inspiration for young people, demonstrating that greatness is achievable through discipline, dedication, and hard work.