Emotional Farewell for Alex Ekubo: Bodyguard Shares Heartfelt Tribute

As family, friends, and colleagues came together in Arochukwu, Abia State, to say goodbye to the late Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, one of the most touching moments of the wake came from his longtime bodyguard, known as ‘Commando’.

The wake took place before the funeral service and burial on Thursday in the actor’s hometown.

At the wake held at the actor’s family home in Ujari Village, Arochukwu, Commando spoke about the late actor. He described him as more than just a boss, saying he was a mentor, a confidant, a brother, and like a father to his son.

“A tribute to my boss, my mentor, big brother, friend, Alex Ekubo. I always call him Doc, that’s doctor, Chief Ikuku, Ikenna,” he said.

“I named my son after you, Ikenna, because you were a great father to him. For years, I had the privilege of working with you, learning and laughing with you. I thought it would last longer.”

“You were not just my boss; you were my mentor, my big brother, my confidence, one of the most important people in my life.”

During his tribute, Commando struggled to hold back tears as he shared memories of working closely with the actor. He said he still finds it hard to accept that the actor is gone, calling the loss devastating.

“I keep wishing this is all a prank. I keep hoping that somehow you will call me the way you always did. I opened your door expecting you to step out the way you always do.

“All day I stayed at the door calling ‘Chief Ikuku’. You left me shattered. Your Commando is shattered. I will miss you. I will miss our endless gists and our endless conversations.”

Mr Ekubo, one of Nollywood’s most popular leading actors, passed away on 11 May after fighting advanced metastatic kidney cancer. He was just 40 years old.

His death led to a flood of tributes from colleagues, fans, and people in the industry. Many remembered him for his charm, kindness, and many years of work in Nigeria’s film industry.

Ekubo became well-known after finishing as the first runner-up in the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition. He then made a name for himself as one of Nollywood’s leading actors. Over the years, he starred in many films and TV shows, gaining a reputation for his versatility and strong screen presence.