Abia State Governor Alex Otti has described the late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo as a "cultural ambassador" who projected the image of the state and Nigeria on the global stage.

Otti spoke on Thursday at Ekubo's funeral service held at the Mary Slessor Technical College Ground in Arochukwu Local Government Area. The governor was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Caleb Ajagba.

"Alex possessed that rare gift of connecting with people through his performances," Otti said. "He brought joy to homes, inspired young people and demonstrated that with discipline, dedication and excellence, greatness is achievable."

The governor noted that Ekubo's success story was a "powerful testimony to the resilience, creativity and ingenuity that characterise the people of Abia State." He added that Ekubo "carried his roots with pride and never ceased to identify with the land of his birth."

Ekubo died in May at age 40. The cause was complications from advanced metastatic kidney cancer — a disease that spreads from the kidney to other parts of the body.

"In him, the youth of our state found a role model who dared to dream and worked tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality."

— Gov Alex Otti

The funeral drew top government officials, Nollywood actors, and sympathisers from across the country. The Resident Pastor of Streams of Joy, Umuahia, Mrs Eno Jerry-Eze, delivered a sermon titled "Please Forgive God." She reminded the congregation that nothing happens without God's knowledge and permission, and urged people to prepare for the day they would give account of their lives.

Ekubo's elder sister, Mrs Kelechi Ekubo-Otusi, described her brother as humble, caring, loving, and God-fearing. She said he devoted his life to God and humanity.

The actor is survived by his wife, parents, siblings, and other relatives.

Otti urged the bereaved family, the people of Arochukwu, and the entertainment industry to remain strong and take solace in God during this period of mourning. He acknowledged that Ekubo's death has created a vacuum in Nigeria's creative industry, but said his legacy and works would continue to inspire generations.

  • Alexx Ekubo died in May 2026 at age 40
  • Cause of death: advanced metastatic kidney cancer
  • Funeral held at Mary Slessor Technical College Ground, Arochukwu, Abia State
  • Governor Otti spoke through his Chief of Staff, Dr Caleb Ajagba
  • Sermon titled "Please Forgive God" was delivered by Pastor Eno Jerry-Eze
  • Ekubo is survived by his wife, parents, siblings, and other relatives