Nollywood actress Funke Akindele has expressed sadness over the death of her friend and colleague, actor Alex Ekubo, admitting that she made efforts to reconnect with him before his passing.
Ekubo’s death was confirmed on Tuesday by several of his colleagues, including Akindele, Bolanle Ninalowo, and Godwin Nnadiekwe.
Akindele shared a heartfelt tribute on her Instagram story, writing, “I really tried to reach out to see you one more time, but I guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace, Alex.
“Ore mi, like you fondly called me, I will always remember and cherish the good times we shared together. Rest in peace, Alex.”
Ninalowo also reacted to the news, writing, “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.”
Ekubo’s demise comes months after concerns were raised by fans over his prolonged absence from social media and public appearances.
Ekubo has been absent from Instagram since December 30, 2024, until a recent viral video appeared, showing him engaging with children. In the video, the actor appeared much leaner, raising further concerns among fans about his health.
The video, published by X user @AsakyGRN, included the description, “Alex Ekubo was spotted for the first time since disappearing from social media.”
Before his death, the actor had previously ignored discussions about marriage, claiming that he was more concerned with making money and expanding his career in the film industry.
His former fiancée, Fancy Acholonu, said in a 2023 interview that they dated without intercourse for five years before their engagement ended in 2021.
Last year, Nollywood actor Ikechukwu Ogbonna reassured fans that Ekubo was in good health despite staying away from social media.
“Alex is very okay. He is in good health, and there is nothing wrong with him. He is just taking a leave because sometimes people want to take time off social media and social gatherings,” Ogbonna had said.
He stated that the late actor had spent time with close friends and family while working on personal projects outside of Nollywood.
