Why I’ve been quiet about Alexx Ekubo’s death — Actor Uzor Arukwe

Nollywood actor, Uzor Arukwe, has explained why he chose not to publicly react immediately to the death of fellow actor Alexx Ekubo, saying he struggled to come to terms with the loss.

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In a post shared on Instagram on Thursday, Arukwe said his silence had led some people to question why he had not shared tributes, photographs or messages following Ekubo’s passing.

According to him, the news left him speechless and in disbelief, making it difficult to find the right words. He recalled meeting Ekubo for the first time on the set of a production by Dabby Chimere and described the late actor as a warm, humble and respectful person.

Arukwe said reflections from people who were closer to Ekubo reinforced the importance of kindness and good character, noting that beyond achievements and professional success, people are ultimately remembered for how they treat others.

He stated that his decision to remain silent was part of his grieving process, adding that not every farewell is expressed publicly, as some are carried through prayers, memories and personal reflection.

The actor paid tribute to Ekubo’s warmth, grace and the positive legacy he left behind, while praying for his peaceful rest.

He said, “I’ve been quiet. And I know some people wondered why I didn’t post, why I didn’t say anything, why there were no pictures, no captions, no public display of grief. The truth is, I didn’t know what to say.

“Some losses don’t meet you online first; they sit with you quietly. They make you shake your head and say, “Mba… not this person. Not Alex.” You replay the memories and hope someone will call to say there has been a mistake.

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“I met Alex Ikenna Ekubo on Dabby Chimers’s set. From day one, he was warm, accommodating, and every bit the gentleman people have described him to be. No noise. No airs. Just a genuinely good man.

“Listening to the stories from those who knew him better, I found myself humbled. It reminded me that at the end of it all, people won’t only remember our talent or our achievements. They will remember our kindness. They will remember how we treated people. They will remember our spirit.

“So silence was my first response to the news of your death because grief comes with silence too. Not every goodbye needs a post. Some are carried in prayer. Some are carried in memories. Some are carried in the heart.”

Ekubo, who died on May 11, was laid to rest on Thursday in his hometown of Ujari in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State.

The burial attracted mourners from across the country, including prominent Nollywood actors and actresses who gathered to honour the late actor’s contributions to the film industry.

Speaking at the ceremony, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, described Ekubo’s death as a major loss to Abia State, the Nigerian entertainment industry and his global fan base.

The governor said the late actor was not only an entertainer but also a cultural ambassador who projected the image of Abia State and Nigeria to the international community.