Farewell to a Star: Emotional Burial of Alex Ekubo Draws Tributes and Mourners

Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo was laid to rest on June 18 in his hometown of Arochukwu, Abia State, after a courageous battle with kidney cancer, which he privately fought before his passing on May 11 at the age of 40. The funeral ceremonies were marked by an outpouring of grief and tributes from family, friends, colleagues, and community members.

The journey to his final resting place began on June 17 when his body arrived in Arochukwu for a wake. A motorcade carrying his remains made a solemn stop at the palace of Eze Arochukwu before proceeding to his family house. Mourners, including close friend IK Ogbonna, led a procession through the village, with many wearing t-shirts emblazoned with Alexx's face and holding his photograph as they bid farewell to the beloved actor. Other notable celebrities such as Ini Edo, Yomi Casual, and Omoni Oboli were seen looking sombre as they made their way to Arochukwu to pay their last respects.

Media personality Denrele Edun shared an emotional tribute, revealing the last voice note he received from Alexx. Despite dealing with his own personal battles, Alexx had reached out to check on Denrele's wellbeing, a testament to his selflessness. Denrele, still grappling with the loss, recalled meeting Alexx in 2010 during the Mr Nigeria pageant, where Alexx emerged as first runner-up, determined to make a name for himself. He reminisced about Alexx's ability to uplift spirits, even when he himself appeared frail on a film set in Port Harcourt, cracking jokes amidst production challenges. Denrele also cherished the unique nicknames Alexx gave his friends, particularly calling him "Rele" and "Nne." He ended his tribute by expressing a hopeful belief that Alexx has reunited with their late friend Goldie Harvey.

Fellow Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe also shared his grief, explaining his initial silence after Alexx's death. Uzor clarified that his silence was not indifference but a profound expression of sorrow, as some losses are too painful to process publicly. He met Alexx on filmmaker Dabby Chimere’s set and described him as a warm, accommodating, and true gentleman. Uzor emphasized that beyond fame and achievements, people are ultimately remembered for their kindness and how they treated others, noting that grief often comes with silence, and not every goodbye requires a public post.

Yomi Casual's wife provided a deeply moving account of her husband's close friendship with Alexx. She recounted how Alexx frequently visited Yomi for fittings, and how, just days before his passing, Yomi had a suit ready for him. Tragically, with no response from Alexx, Yomi had to take the meticulously tailored suit to the funeral home himself so his friend could wear it for his final journey. She lauded her husband for his strength in ensuring Alexx looked his best one last time, despite the immense grief he was carrying.

During the funeral proceedings, a poignant moment unfolded at the Eze Aro of Arochukwu's Palace. The traditional ruler offered a prayer over Alexx's casket, imploring God to ensure the continuity of Alexx's lineage. He further made an unverified claim that news had reached them of Alexx's wife being pregnant. The Eze prayed for a safe delivery and for the child to achieve even greater feats than his popular father, stating, "If its father ate with Presidents, it will eat with more Presidents." This unverified announcement, though not confirmed by the family, brought a glimmer of hope to many Nigerians. The solemn dust-to-dust ritual took place in his family compound, with his wife Anwuli and other family members visibly emotional.

Alexx Ekubo is survived by his wife, parents, and siblings. His passing leaves a significant void in the Nigerian entertainment industry, but his legacy of kindness, warmth, and talent will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of those he touched.