The family of late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has confirmed that he died after battling stage 4 kidney cancer.
Reports of the 40-year-old actor’s death spread across social media on Tuesday, with conflicting claims initially emerging over whether he suffered from liver or kidney cancer.
However, in a statement shared via his Instagram page, the family clarified that the actor died from complications linked to “advanced metastatic kidney cancer” after what they described as a brief but courageous battle with the illness.
Metastatic kidney cancer, also known as stage 4 kidney cancer, occurs when cancer cells spread from the kidney to other parts of the body, including the lungs, bones, liver or brain.
According to the family, Ekubo kept his health struggles private while holding on to hope that he would eventually recover and one day share his testimony publicly.
The statement also revealed that the actor was married before his death, describing him as a “beloved husband”.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Son, Brother, and Friend, Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke,” the statement read.
“After a brief but courageous battle, Alexx passed away at Evercare Hospital due to complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
“Throughout this difficult journey, he bore his pain with remarkable strength, unwavering faith, and enduring hope, believing that one day his testimony would be shared with the world.”
The family appealed for privacy and prayers during what they described as a deeply painful period, adding that funeral arrangements would be announced later.
“We sincerely thank everyone for the love, support, prayers, and understanding extended to the family throughout this period,” the statement added.
Ekubo had remained in the public spotlight following his relationship with entrepreneur Fancy Acholonu.
In 2021, Acholonu called off their planned wedding, before later apologising publicly to the actor in 2022. She also spoke about the reasons behind their separation in January 2023.
