The Nigerian entertainment industry recently mourned the death of Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, who reportedly succumbed to kidney cancer. This tragedy highlights the ongoing battle many celebrities face against cancer, a disease that does not discriminate by fame or wealth. Over the years, several notable Nigerian figures have lost their lives to various forms of cancer. Here is a list of some of them.
Alexx Ekubo (1986–2026)
Popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo passed away due to complications from kidney cancer. His family stated that he died from "advanced metastatic kidney cancer" after a brief but courageous fight. Ekubo was a law graduate and humanitarian whose impact spanned over two decades in the creative industry.
Aduke Gold
Gospel singer and minister Aduke Ajayi, known as Aduke Gold, died on August 12, 2024, at University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan. Initially, there were rumors that she died from fibroid surgery complications, but her brother clarified that she had been battling cervical cancer.
Sound Sultan
Nigerian music icon Olanrewaju Abdul-Ganiu Fasasi, popularly known as Sound Sultan, died on July 11, 2021, at age 44. He was diagnosed with Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, a rare throat cancer. He underwent chemotherapy in the United States before succumbing to the illness.
Karibi Fubara
Nollywood actor Karibi Fubara died on December 15, 2021, after battling kidney cancer for over a year. His sister announced his death, describing him as someone who lived fully and with joy. He was known for roles in Smart Money Woman, God Calling, and Ratnik.
Sunny Okosun
Legendary musician Sunny Okosun was known for advocating for African liberation through his music. He battled colon cancer before passing away in May 2008 at a hospital in Washington, DC.
Ify Onwuemene
Veteran actress Ify Onwuemene, famous for her role in the sitcom Everyday People, died after battling endometrial cancer. She underwent several chemotherapy sessions after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and had her womb removed before her death.
