- Stanley Ontop revealed that Alex Ekubo had secretly battled stage 4 liver cancer since 2024
- The actor reportedly underwent a liver transplant before complications caused his condition to deteriorate
- Tributes poured in across social media as fans and colleagues mourned the Nollywood star
Fresh details have emerged regarding the reported death of Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, whose passing shocked colleagues, fans and members of the Nigerian entertainment industry.
News of the actor’s death surfaced earlier this week, triggering an outpouring of grief across social media, with many Nigerians expressing disbelief over what appeared to be his sudden demise.
However, Nollywood filmmaker and close associate Stanley Ontop has now disclosed that the late actor had secretly battled stage 4 liver cancer since 2024.
In a now-viral Instagram post shared on Tuesday evening, Stanley Ontop revealed that Alex Ekubo underwent extensive treatment, including a liver transplant, in an effort to survive the illness.
According to him, the actor briefly returned to work after the medical procedure and appeared to be recovering before complications reportedly developed.
Stanley explained that the transplanted liver later failed, causing the actor’s health condition to worsen significantly in the months leading to his death.
“Alex was diagnosed with stage 4 liver cancer in 2024. After undergoing treatment and a liver transplant, he briefly returned to work. Unfortunately, the liver failed again and complications arose, and his condition deteriorated until his passing,” he wrote.
The filmmaker also appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information surrounding the actor’s illness and death, urging Nigerians to respect the privacy of the bereaved family during the difficult period.
“We request that everyone allow Alex to rest in peace and respect the privacy of his family during this difficult time,” he added.
Stanley further disclosed that the actor’s remains had been deposited at the morgue pending funeral arrangements.
The revelation has generated widespread reactions online, especially among fans who were unaware that the actor had been quietly battling a life-threatening illness for nearly two years. Many social media users praised Alex Ekubo for keeping his health struggles private while continuing to pursue his acting career.
Known for his charming screen presence and performances in several hit Nollywood productions, Alex Ekubo built a strong reputation as one of the industry’s most recognisable actors. His reported death has left a significant void in the entertainment sector, with tributes continuing to pour in from colleagues, admirers and well-wishers across the country.
The actor’s passing has also renewed conversations about cancer awareness, access to specialised healthcare and the emotional burden carried by individuals battling terminal illnesses away from the public eye.