Veteran Nollywood icon Pete Edochie has left fans emotional after opening up about the painful loss of late actor Alex Ekubo, revealing that the deceased had already made special plans to celebrate his upcoming 80th birthday before death cut those dreams short.
Speaking in a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, the legendary actor recalled the few memorable moments they spent together, describing Alex as a man whose kindness, generosity and respect made a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.
According to Pete, one of the moments he can never forget was the very first time they met. He revealed that Alex arrived at his hotel with a huge cow and a lively group of traditional Ogene drummers just to personally invite him to an event, a gesture he said spoke volumes about the late actor’s character.
The veteran actor disclosed that Alex had even bigger plans ahead, including organizing a grand celebration for his 80th birthday next year. Sadly, those dreams will never become reality following the actor’s untimely death, leaving Pete heartbroken.
“Alex Ekubo came, he saw, and left an indelible impression. I met him three times. During our first meeting, he came to my hotel with a big cow and Ogene drummers to invite me to an event. I later learned he had big plans for my 80th birthday celebration next year, but unfortunately, he is no longer with us,” Pete said.
Pete also praised actor IK Ogbonna, describing him as a loyal friend who stood by Alex both during his lifetime and after his passing.
Since Alex’s death, tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues across Nollywood. Actress Ufuoma McDermott shared her regrets over not sending him a message earlier, while Rita Dominic admitted she still struggles to accept that such a talented actor died so young.
Veteran actor Chiwetalu Agu also honoured Alex, describing him as a gifted storyteller whose passion and dedication to acting inspired many.
Alex Ekubo passed away on May 11, 2026, at the age of 40 after battling advanced metastatic kidney cancer. He was honoured at a service of songs in Lagos before being laid to rest on June 18, with several Nollywood stars, friends and family members gathering to pay their final respects.
