Kcee Urges Public to Celebrate Loved Ones While Alive
Nigerian singer Kingsley Okonkwo, popularly known as Kcee, has called on the public to adopt the habit of celebrating individuals while they are still alive, rather than reserving tributes for after their death. The singer made this heartfelt appeal following the passing of Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, who died on May 11, 2026, after battling advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
Kcee expressed regret over the common tendency to eulogize people only after they have passed away, emphasizing the importance of showing appreciation in the present moment. In a poignant message shared on social media, he urged everyone to do better going forward.
“We are all guilty. We’re too good at eulogies… and too late with love. A lot of people have beautiful things to say about you. But they save it for your funeral. They wait until you’re gone to post the ‘RIP,’ the long thread, the ‘he was like a brother to me.’ Why do we do that? Why do we keep our appreciation locked up until there’s no one left to hear it? Why do we clap for people at their graves, but stay silent when they’re struggling, building, doubting themselves right in front of us?” he wrote.
The singer stressed that friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and siblings are all here now and can hear words of encouragement. He called for a change in behavior, asking people to start telling others “I’m proud of you” while they can still smile back. He also encouraged supporting their businesses, sharing their work, and checking on their mental health while they are alive.
“Can we choose real love, real presence, real compassion… before it’s too late? Yes, we’re all going to leave this earth someday. That’s the one appointment none of us can cancel. But until that day comes, let’s not waste the time we have. Let’s be human to each other. Let’s say the nice things now. Let’s show up now. Let’s make peace, give grace, and love deeply — while there’s still time,” Kcee added.
He concluded by saying that the best “RIP” is a life well-loved before it ends, urging people to call, text, or visit someone today and speak life. “Don’t wait for the funeral. Goodbye Alex, sleep well,” he wrote.
