Emotions ran high on Thursday as Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo was laid to rest in his hometown of Ujari, Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State.

The funeral attracted a large crowd of mourners, including prominent actors, actresses, filmmakers, and other personalities from across the country who came to honour the late actor and celebrate a career that spanned more than a decade in the Nigerian film industry.

Speaking at the event, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, described Ekubo’s passing as a significant loss not only to Abia State but also to the Nigerian entertainment industry and his numerous admirers around the world.

The governor said the late actor was much more than a performer, noting that he served as a cultural ambassador who projected the image of Abia State and Nigeria beyond the country's borders.

“The news of Alex’s passing came as a profound shock. Today, we mourn not merely an actor, brother and friend, but a creative force, a cultural ambassador and a proud son of Arochukwu whose talent brought honour to Abia State and Nigeria,” he said.

Delivering a sermon during the funeral service, the Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International, Umuahia, Pastor Eno Eze, encouraged mourners to focus on building lasting legacies. He stressed that the true value of life is measured not by its duration but by the impact it has on others.

He urged people to live purposeful lives defined by service, positive influence, and meaningful contributions to society, noting that individuals are ultimately remembered for the lives they touch and the values they uphold.

Many of Ekubo’s colleagues in the movie industry also paid glowing tributes to the late actor.

Actress Joyce Kanu described his death as difficult to comprehend, recalling his cheerful personality and warm nature.

“It is still a shock. Alex was a brother I loved so much. He always had a smile and a warm spirit. I never imagined I would be attending his burial. My prayer is that God grants his family the strength to bear this painful loss,” she said.

Actor Stan Nze said the actor’s passing serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life.

“Life is fickle. Alex was vibrant, energetic and full of life. You never would have imagined he could pass so soon,” he said.

Actress Oluchi Chiana, popularly known as Stainless, described Ekubo as a humble and supportive colleague who was always willing to assist younger actors in the industry.

“We lost a rare gem, a colleague and a friend. He was humble, encouraging and always willing to help younger actors. What I will miss most is his humility, laughter, joy and kindness. He was a good man, and his passing has left us deeply saddened,” she said.

Among the notable personalities present at the burial were actress Ini Edo, actress and filmmaker Omoni Oboli, socialite and influencer Pretty Mike, and businessman and nightlife entrepreneur Obinna Iyiegbu.

The event also drew actors, filmmakers, entertainers, and other stakeholders within the creative industry. Former National President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, as well as the General Manager of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency, Okereke Ogbonnia, were among those in attendance at the well-attended funeral ceremony.