The Governor of Abia State, Dr.Alex Otti, has paid glowing tribute to late Nollywood actor, Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke, describing him as a cultural ambassador, creative force, and one of Abia State’s most distinguished sons whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.
The Governor’s message was delivered at the burial ceremony of the late actor in Arochukwu, represented by the chief of staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba.
Expressing deep sorrow over the actor’s death, Governor Otti said the news of Alexx Ekubo’s passing at the age of 40 came as a profound shock to the government and people of Abia State, the Nigerian entertainment industry, and his millions of admirers across Africa and beyond.
According to the Governor, the late actor’s family disclosed that he died following complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer after a courageous battle with the illness.
“This is by all standards a very difficult moment in the life of any father to stand to give a speech at the funeral service of a beloved son.
“It is therefore with a heavy heart, yet with gratitude to God for an impactful life lived, that we pay our final respects to one of Abia’s most distinguished sons and Nollywood actors, the late Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwaraeke,” he said.
Governor Otti noted that beyond being a celebrated actor, Alexx Ekubo was a proud ambassador of Arochukwu, Abia State, and Nigeria whose talent projected the image of the state and country onto the global stage.
“Today, we mourn not merely a husband, an actor, a brother and a friend but a cultural ambassador, a creative force, and a proud son of Arochukwu whose talent projected the image of Abia State and Nigeria onto the global stage,” he stated.
The Governor praised the actor’s ability to connect with people through his craft, saying his performances brought joy to countless homes while inspiring young people to pursue excellence and realize their dreams.
“His success story remains a powerful testimony to the resilience, creativity, and ingenuity that characterize the people of Abia State.
He carried his roots with pride and never ceased to identify with the land of his birth,” he said.
He added that the late actor served as a role model for many youths by demonstrating that dedication, discipline, and hard work could elevate an individual from a local community to international recognition.
Governor Otti also reflected on the personal qualities that endeared Alexx Ekubo to many, describing him as humble, generous, warm-hearted, and supportive of others.
“His life reminds us that true greatness is not measured solely by fame or achievement but by the positive impact we make on the lives of others,” he noted.
The Governor further revealed that even during his final days while battling illness, Alexx Ekubo maintained unwavering faith in God and continued to exhibit remarkable courage.
“Even while he was lying critically ill and going through his last moments on earth, he continued to exude the rare confidence in his creator and his implicit hope in Him that has the final say in the affairs of men,” he said.
Extending condolences to the actor’s wife, Anwuli, the Ekubo-Okwaraeke family, the people of Arochukwu, and the Nollywood community, Governor Otti acknowledged the painful loss and prayed for divine comfort and strength for all who mourn him.
He also lamented the vacuum created by the actor’s death within Nigeria’s creative industry, noting that his contributions to Nollywood would remain permanently engraved in the history of African cinema.
“Although his voice has been silenced, his works will continue to speak. Though the curtain has fallen on his earthly journey, his contributions to Nollywood will remain permanently engraved in the history of African cinema,” the Governor said.
On behalf of the government and people of Abia State, Governor Otti extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved family and all those affected by the loss.
“As we commit Alexx to mother earth today, may we find comfort in the assurance that a life dedicated to purpose never truly ends. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the dreams he inspired, and the memories he leaves behind,” he added.
The Governor concluded his tribute with an emotional farewell, describing the late actor as a worthy son of Arochukwu, a worthy son of Abia State, and a shining star of Africa whose legacy will endure for generations.
THE WHISTLER reports that Alexx Ekubo was widely celebrated for his outstanding contributions to Nollywood and his role in promoting African storytelling through film.
His death marks the end of a remarkable career that earned him admiration across the continent and beyond.
(The Whistler)
