A heavy blanket of grief settled over Arochukwu kingdom in Abia State as the body of the beloved Nollywood actor, Alex Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke (famously known as Alexx Ekubo), arrived in his hometown ahead of his final burial rites. The vibrant and charismatic movie star, affectionately called “Chief Ikuku,” tragically passed away on May 11, 2026, at the young age of 40 following a strictly private battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
The arrival of his remains plunged the community and the entertainment industry into deep mourning. Escorted by a solemn motorcade convoy, the body made a symbolic brief stop at the palace of the Eze Arochukwu to receive traditional royal respect before being conveyed to his father’s residence at Ekubo-Okwaraeke Avenue in Ujari Village.
Local residents, fans, and devastated Nollywood colleagues lined the streets in a massive emotional procession. Many wore custom white t-shirts emblazoned with the late actor’s smiling face, clutching his photographs to celebrate his indelible impact on African cinema.
“The overwhelming outpouring of love, prayers, messages, visits, calls, and strength shown to the family during this painful period has been truly humbling.”
— Mazi Alex Oji Ekubo Okwaraeke (Family Statement)
A deeply emotional wake-keeping service was held on Wednesday evening, June 17, drawing several high-profile figures from across Nigeria. Among the top celebrities spotted traveling down to the family compound to support the grieving household and pay their final respects were his closest industry friends, including IK Ogbonna, Ini Edo, Omoni Oboli, and popular fashion designer Yomi Casual.
Following the arrival of his body and the emotional wake, the final funeral service is scheduled to take place today, June 18, 2026, at the Mary Slessor School. This will be immediately followed by his interment and final rest within his family compound, bringing a heartbreaking close to the life of a screen legend who was widely celebrated as the life of every room he entered. He is survived by his wife, parents, and siblings.
