‘I only wish you were alive to see this love’ — IK Ogbonna, stars bid farewell to Alex Ekubo

Grief and emotion filled The Monarch Event Centre in Lekki, Lagos, on Wednesday as Nollywood stars, friends and family gathered for a Service of Songs in honour of late actor Alex Ekubo.

The all-white memorial event attracted several notable figures from the Nigerian entertainment industry, who came together to pay tribute to the actor, whose death on May 11, 2026, at the age of 40, shocked fans and colleagues alike.

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Family members had earlier confirmed that Ekubo died from complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.

One of the most emotional moments of the evening came when actor IK Ogbonna, described as one of Ekubo’s closest friends, broke down while delivering his tribute.

“I only wish you were alive to witness the love people are showing you right now. I’m glad I had you, not just as a friend, but as a brother,” he said tearfully.

Ogbonna further described the late actor as “a soldier, a wise man, a light in every room,” adding that Ekubo carried life and positivity everywhere he went.

Actress Nancy Isime also paid tribute, describing him as “a good man” whose presence always left people smiling.

Singer Yemi Alade recalled how Ekubo encouraged her during a difficult period in her music career and even appeared in her hit song Johnny without requesting payment.

Meanwhile, Ituah Ighodalo offered prayers for Ekubo’s widow, Anwuli, asking God to comfort and strengthen her through the difficult period.

Also at the event, Alex Otti was represented by the wife of pastor Jerry Eze. The governor reportedly pledged financial support to the family and announced that the road leading to Ekubo’s hometown in Arochukwu was being rehabilitated ahead of the actor’s burial on June 28, 2026.

The emotional gathering marked the beginning of Ekubo’s final journey home, with tributes reflecting the deep admiration and affection many had for the late actor.