IK Ogbonna Tribute honours late actor Alex Ekubo as the Nollywood star shares emotional memories, grief and lessons after his friend’s death
Nollywood actor and filmmaker Ikechukwu Mitchel Ogbonna, popularly known as IK Ogbonna, has paid an emotional tribute to his late friend and colleague Alex Ekubo, months after the actor’s death in Lagos.
Ogbonna shared his heartfelt message on Tuesday, July 15, 2026, through his Instagram page, marking his first public reflection on the loss of the actor, whom he described as his best friend and brother.
Alex Ekubo died on May 12, 2026, after complications linked to advanced metastatic kidney cancer. His family confirmed that the actor passed away at Evercare Hospital in Lagos after spending time on life support.
During the burial arrangements and funeral activities, Ogbonna remained largely silent, with many close to the actor viewing his decision as a private way of mourning the loss.
In his emotional message, Ogbonna said the death of Ekubo changed his understanding of grief and the reality of losing someone close.
“Nothing prepares you for a loss like that,” Ogbonna wrote, describing the pain of losing someone whose presence had become a significant part of his life.
The actor reflected on the difficult weeks following Ekubo’s passing, saying he had struggled to understand life, loss and faith.
“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,” he said.
Ogbonna revealed that he and Ekubo had shared dreams of growing old together, creating films, building businesses, travelling and raising their families.
He described Ekubo as someone who lived meaningfully, loved deeply and positively influenced those around him.
“My greatest comfort is knowing that you truly lived. You didn’t merely exist. You loved. You gave. You laughed loudly. You showed up. You carried people. You believed in people,” Ogbonna wrote.
The actor also reflected on the lessons he took from his friend’s life, noting that relationships, kindness and the way people impact others often matter more than achievements or material possessions.
Ogbonna encouraged people to appreciate their loved ones while they still have the opportunity, urging them to forgive quickly, maintain close relationships and live intentionally.
“If there is one thing I hope you take away from this. Love people while they can still hear you. Tell them you appreciate them while they can still smile back,” he said.
The tribute also highlighted the close bond between both actors, with Ogbonna recalling their conversations, disagreements, laughter and plans for the future.
“Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for trusting me enough to call me your brother. It remains one of the greatest honours of my life,” he added.
Alex Ekubo was widely recognised for his work in Nollywood, appearing in several popular films and earning admiration for his acting talent and public personality.
Ogbonna’s tribute adds to the outpouring of grief from colleagues and fans who have continued to honour Ekubo’s contribution to the Nigerian entertainment industry.
