Tears, tributes as Abia government, Nollywood bid farewell to Alex Ekubo

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By Steve Oko

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UMUAHIA — Emotion and grief filled Ujari, Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State on Thursday as the state government, family members, friends, and top figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry gathered to bid farewell to Nollywood actor Alex Ikenna Ekubo Okwaraeke, popularly known as Alex Ekubo.

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Ekubo, one of Nigeria’s most popular screen actors, died at the age of 40 following complications from advanced kidney cancer after a prolonged illness.

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The burial attracted a large turnout of mourners, including Nollywood actors and actresses who came from across the country to honour the late actor, whose career spanned over a decade and earned him widespread admiration across Africa and beyond.

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Representing Governor Alex Otti at the funeral, the Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, described Ekubo’s death as a huge loss to Abia State, the Nigerian entertainment industry, and fans worldwide.

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He said the late actor was not just an entertainer but also a cultural ambassador who showcased Abia State and Nigeria positively on the global stage.

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“The news of Alex’s passing came as a profound shock. Today, we mourn not merely an actor, brother and friend, but a creative force, a cultural ambassador and a proud son of Arochukwu whose talent brought honour to Abia State and Nigeria,” he said.

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Ajagba added that Ekubo’s life reflected the resilience and creativity of Abia youths, noting that he inspired many young people to pursue excellence.

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“He carried his roots with pride and inspired countless young people to dream big and pursue excellence,” he said.

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He also noted that the late actor showed courage and faith during his final days, adding that his contributions to Nollywood and African cinema would remain unforgettable.

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Delivering a sermon at the funeral service, the Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International, Umuahia, Pastor Eno Jerry Eze, urged people to focus on building lasting legacies, stressing that the true value of life lies in impact rather than longevity.

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She encouraged the bereaved family to take comfort in the legacy Ekubo left behind, rather than be overwhelmed by grief.

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Nollywood actress Joyce Kanu, who attended the burial from Abuja, described Ekubo as a warm and joyful colleague, saying his death remained a painful shock.

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Actor Stan Nze said Ekubo’s passing was a reminder of the fragility of life, adding that he regretted not having more opportunities to work with him on screen.

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Another actress, Oluchi Chiana (Stainless), described the late actor as humble and supportive, noting that his kindness and encouragement to younger actors would be deeply missed.

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“He was a good man, and his passing has left us deeply saddened,” she said.

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Ekubo rose to prominence through several Nollywood productions and became one of the industry’s most sought-after actors, known for his charisma, versatility and professionalism.

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The funeral was attended by several notable personalities, including Nollywood stars Ini Edo, Omoni Oboli, socialite Pretty Mike, and businessman Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana), among others.

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Others present included former National President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, and the General Manager of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency, Okereke Ogbonnia, reflecting the wide influence and admiration the late actor enjoyed across different sectors.

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