Uzor Arukwe Explains Silence Following Alexx Ekubo’s Death

Nigerian actor, filmmaker and producer Uzor Arukwe has opened up about his silence following the death of his colleague, Alex Ekubo.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Arukwe said he stayed quiet because he struggled to find the right words. He explained that some losses are difficult to process and leave people hoping the news is not true.

The actor recalled meeting Ekubo on a film set and described him as warm, welcoming and respectful. He said the late actor lived up to the kind words many people have shared about him.

Arukwe added that hearing stories from those who knew Ekubo closely reminded him that people are remembered not only for their success but also for their kindness and the way they treat others. He said silence was his first reaction because grief often comes without words.

Uzor wrote:

“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.

“I met Alex Ikenna Ekubo on Dabby Chimere’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.

“Alex… Ikuku. Daalụ. For your warmth. For your grace. For the example you left behind. Nọdụ n’udo. We’ll hold the fort on this side until we meet again. Journey well, ezigbo nwoke”.