Popular Nigerian comedian and filmmaker, Ayo Makun, widely known as AY, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, reflecting on the actor’s final moments at a Lagos hospital.
Ekubo reportedly passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, following a prolonged battle with cancer. Reports indicated that the actor was diagnosed with stage four liver cancer in 2024 and later underwent a liver transplant.
However, complications arose after the transplanted liver allegedly failed again in 2026.
The actor was said to have died just hours after being placed on life support.
In an emotional post shared on Instagram, AY suggested he was present at the hospital during Ekubo’s final moments, describing the loss as one that remains difficult to comprehend. According to the comedian, the late actor still had a smile on his face when he passed away.
“Some losses do not feel real no matter how many times you try to process them. Still struggling with the reality that you are gone, Alex,” AY wrote.
He added, “From the laughter to the conversations, the random moments, the brotherhood, and all the memories we shared in this industry. This one hurts deeply.
“I was there. I saw you still smiling even in death. I saw the tears from friends and family. And honestly, a part of me is still in shock. Rest well my brother. You will be remembered beyond the lights, the cameras, and the fame.”
Another close associate of the actor, Godwin Nnadiekwe, also paid tribute to Ekubo, revealing that the late actor had already prepared his will before his passing.
Sharing his thoughts via Instagram Story, Nnadiekwe described the situation as especially painful.
“Alex Ekubo. To think you already prepared your will, it’s a heartbreak I can’t quite describe. Rest well, my friend,” he wrote.
Meanwhile, the family of the deceased actor has officially confirmed the cause of his death, stating that he died from complications related to advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
In a statement posted on the actor’s official Instagram page on May 13, the family disclosed that Ekubo died at Evercare Hospital after what they described as a brief but courageous struggle with the illness.
The statement read: “From the Family of Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Son, Brother, and Friend, Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke.”
It continued: “After a brief but courageous battle, Alexx passed away at Evercare Hospital due to complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.”
The family further praised the late actor’s resilience throughout his health challenges, noting that he remained hopeful despite his condition.
“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 statement added.
They also appealed for privacy during this period of mourning, adding that details regarding funeral arrangements would be announced at a later date.
