Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna has finally broken his silence weeks after losing his close friend and brother, Alexx Ekubo, in an emotional tribute that has left the industry in tears.
In a deeply moving video and post shared on his Instagram, IK poured out his heart about the sudden pain of losing someone so full of life. Alexx Ekubo, the light-skinned actor known for his vibrant personality, passed away on May 11, 2026, at age 40 after a courageous battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer. He was laid to rest on June 18, 2026, in an emotional ceremony attended by many industry colleagues.
Read Stars Gather for Alexx Ekubo Service of Songs
“Nothing prepares you for a loss like that. There is something I’ve come to realise these past few months. Every day we see an ambulance drive past us… We look up for a second, whisper, ‘God have mercy,’ or ‘Rest in peace,’ then continue with our day. Because somehow, we always believe the person inside belongs to somebody else.”
He reflected on how the tragedy forced him to confront deep questions about life, faith, and time.
“For the past two months, I’ve been trying to understand life. Trying to understand loss. Trying to understand God. Trying to understand why someone so full of life can suddenly become a memory.”
IK recalled their shared dreams and conversations:
“Alexx and I spoke about everything. We laughed about growing old. We dreamed about businesses. Movies we wanted to create. Places we wanted to travel… Neither of us imagined one of us would leave first.”
The tribute highlighted the fragility of life and the importance of living intentionally.
“Tomorrow is a privilege. Not a promise… Love people while they can still hear you. Tell them you appreciate them while they can still smile back. Forgive quickly. Call your parents. Check on your friends… Live intentionally. Love completely. Tomorrow is never promised.”
Fellow Nollywood stars quickly rallied around IK with messages of comfort and solidarity.
Ini Edo wrote:
“You are one of the best humans out there. You have such a genuine heart that understands what love and loyalty really mean in this evil world. God will continue to comfort and preserve you.”
Omoni Oboli added:
“Alex’s death changes us forever. We are thankful for the life he lived and the example he left us… My dearest IK! We will be ok. We will live for our brother, and affliction will never arise a second time. Love you.”
Other stars like Nancy Isime (“One day at a time, Gee”), Lilian Esoro (“It is well, bestie. Live intentionally, love completely, tomorrow is indeed never promised!”), and several more offered words of strength and prayers.
The close bond between IK and Alexx was well-known in the industry. Despite occasional public banter and even a past visa-related disagreement, their friendship remained strong, with IK supporting Alexx during tough times like his broken engagement.
This heartfelt outpouring has reminded many of the importance of cherishing relationships while they last, turning grief into a powerful call for intentional living.