ARUCHUKWARUCHUKWU, Nigeria — Family, friends, and Nollywood colleagues will gather Wednesday evening at the family residence of late actor Alexx Ekubo in Arochukwu, Abia State, for his wake-keeping. The solemn event will mark the beginning of final rites for the beloved star, who died May 11 at age 40 after battling advanced kidney cancer. His burial and interment are scheduled for Thursday at Mary Slessor School Field, Amanagwu Village.
Close friends IK Ogbonna, Vintage, and Michael Godson were already in his hometown ahead of the ceremony, helping with preparations and standing by the family. Their presence underscored the importance of having good friends in moments of grief, companions who not only share joy but also shoulder the weight of sorrow.
Tributes keep flowing in. Colleagues described him as “a gentle giant” and “a brother to all,” recalling his generosity and mentorship of younger actors.
Fans on social media poured out heartfelt messages and prayers. “Alexx was more than an actor, he was family to all of us Nollywood lovers,” one wrote. Another posted, “We lost a gem. His smile lit up the screen and our hearts.” “Forever in our hearts, Alexx. Nollywood will never forget you,” read another tribute. A supporter added, “This wake-keeping is not just mourning, it’s celebrating a man who gave us joy through film.” Many also prayed for his family and wife, writing, “May God comfort his wife and give his family strength to bear this loss.”
Social commentators noted that his passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of celebrating artists while they are alive. Cultural leaders in Abia praised him for putting his hometown on the global map through Nollywood, while industry stakeholders highlighted his roles in Weekend Getaway, Lagos Cougars, Champagne, and Omo Ghetto: The Saga as milestones that helped elevate Nigerian cinema internationally.
For his family and close friends, the wake-keeping was both a farewell and a celebration of a life that touched millions through film and friendship.
