Actor IK Ogbonna and fashion designer Yomi Casual have been spotted during comedian MC Mbakara’s condolence visit to the family of late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo.
Photos shared online showed the two close associates of the actor looking solemn as they visited the family residence and signed a condolence register beside a framed photograph of the late actor.
The appearance of IK Ogbonna and Yomi Casual marked one of the first public sightings of Alexx Ekubo’s close friends since news of his death emerged, with many Nigerians reacting emotionally to the images.
Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo reportedly died at the age of 40 after what his family described as “a brief but courageous battle” with advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
According to the statement shared on his verified Instagram page on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, the family said he died at Evercare Hospital due to complications from the illness. The statement, signed by the family of Alexx Ikenna Ekubo-Okwarake, asked for privacy and prayers while funeral arrangements are being planned.
The post read in part that he endured the illness with “remarkable strength, unwavering faith, and enduring hope.” The family also thanked supporters for their love and prayers during the period.
Following the announcement, several celebrities publicly mourned him. Music star 2Baba shared a throwback performance video featuring Alexx Ekubo, late singer Sound Sultan, and Kelly Hansome, writing: “You touched more hearts than you know. Rest easy, my brother Alex.”
Actor AY Makun said Alexx kept his illness private and revealed he was at the hospital during his final moments. Actress Funke Akindele also said she repeatedly tried reaching him before his death, but he insisted he was fine and later withdrew from people around him.
Public reaction has been intense across social media, especially on Instagram, where the family’s announcement gathered hundreds of thousands of likes and tens of thousands of comments within hours.
Many commenters expressed shock that the actor appeared to suffer privately without many people knowing the severity of his condition. One wrote: “This is still so hard to believe. Chief Ikuku with the vibes and positivity… This hurts so bad.”
Others questioned why he seemed to receive overwhelming public affection only after his death.
Some mourners described him as cheerful, positive, and deeply loved in the entertainment industry. Some reactions focused on IK Ogbonna’s emotional appearance during the condolence visit.
A commenter said:
“Even in death, IK is still by his side; that’s a true friend.”
Others criticized the decision to publicly share photos from the mourning visit.
One user wrote:
“Must you people go with cameras??? Very soon now, we will start seeing pictures of his vulnerable parents everywhere.”
Overall, the reaction online has been one of grief and disbelief, with many fans and colleagues saying Alexx Ekubo kept his health struggles hidden while appearing strong in public.
