The mother of late Nollywood actor, Alex Ekubo, Evangelist Mrs Jane Mmerechi Ekubo-Okwaraeke, has penned an emotional tribute to her son, saying she still longs for his calls, chats, encouragement and prayers weeks after his death.
The tribute seen by PUNCH Online on Tuesday was included in the funeral pamphlet distributed at the actor’s burial, held in Arochukwu, Abia State, from June 17 to 18.
PUNCH Online had reported that Ekubo died on May 11, 2026, at the age of 40, following complications from advanced metastatic kidney cancer after what his family described as a “brief but courageous battle.”
In the tribute titled “A Tribute to My Exceptional Son – I Love You Till Tomorrow,” the grieving mother described the late actor as her joy and pride, saying he lived an impactful life devoted to God and humanity.
She wrote, “Chief Ikuku Oma, thank you for being my joy and my pride. I am still longing for your calls, chats, care, unconditional love, your gist, your encouragement, your advice, our corporate prayers, and our praise and worship sessions.”
Describing him as an exceptional son, she added, “My beloved son, you were EXCEPTIONAL. Yes, you were different in all that you did. I never doubted your judgment or your views. You were a priceless gift, an amazing son whose life brought joy, laughter, and pride to everyone who knew you.”
She said losing him was a pain beyond words, but she took solace in the impact he made during his lifetime.
“Losing such a precious son is a pain beyond human understanding, and my heart aches deeply. I will forever cherish the beautiful memories we shared. You remain forever treasured in my heart,” she wrote.
The bereaved mother also reflected on Ekubo’s Christian faith, recalling that he once told her introducing him to Jesus was the greatest gift she ever gave him.
According to her, “Thank God your life on earth was dedicated to serving God, impacting lives, loving others, and spreading the Gospel. You were never ashamed of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
She added, “You once told me that knowing Jesus was the greatest gift I ever gave you. By His grace, I trained you in the way of God, and you never departed from it until the very end.”
Recalling his words of encouragement whenever she was discouraged, she wrote, “You were always lifting my hands whenever I was weak. You would say, ‘Sweetheart, jide obi gi aka. Remember, God is beautiful in all situations. Be strong and courageous, great woman of God. JEHOVAH BU EZE.’”
The late actor’s mother described him as resilient, humble and generous, saying the numerous tributes pouring in since his death had comforted the family.
She wrote, “You were such a good and humble man. Ikuku Oma, man of God, you lived a life of purpose and love. I am proud of your resilience, kindness, humour, generosity, and humility.”
She added, “Beautiful things are being said and written about you daily. What is 100 years in this world without impact? You lived a good life and left an unforgettable footprint in the hearts of all who knew you.”
Expressing gratitude to her late son’s wife, Anwuli, she thanked her for standing by him and the family throughout his lifetime.
She concluded the tribute with a message of hope, writing, “This is very hard for me, Ikuku Oma. But my consolation is that we shall meet again on the resurrection morning, when we shall part no more. May your beautiful soul rest in perfect peace.”
Ekubo, a former Mr Nigeria runner-up, was laid to rest in his hometown of Arochukwu, Abia State. He is survived by his wife, Anwuli, his mother and other family members.
