A service of songs held in Lagos on June 10 in honour of late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo turned unexpectedly tense after singer Chike appeared to receive a muted reception from some attendees, amid an ongoing controversy linked to TV host Frank Edoho.
The memorial, attended by prominent figures including Funke Akindele and businessman E-Money, saw guests dressed in white in a solemn tribute to the late actor. However, attention quickly shifted from remembrance to the strained dynamic between Chike and Edoho, whose presence at the same event reignited public interest in a dispute that has played out online in recent weeks.
The tension stems from a leaked audio recording in May 2026, in which Edoho was heard confronting Chike over allegations of an affair involving Edoho’s wife, Sandra Onyenucheya. The claims reportedly date back to late 2022 and continued into early 2025, according to the audio.
Onyenucheya has strongly denied any wrongdoing during her marriage, stating that any interaction with Chike after 2024 was strictly professional and rooted in friendship. In a public response, she also accused Edoho of infidelity and emotional abuse, adding further complexity to an already volatile situation.
At the Lagos event, observers noted what appeared to be a subtle distancing from Chike by some attendees, fuelling speculation of a social “snub.” Yet, brief video clips circulating online suggested a more nuanced reality, with one clip appearing to show Chike and Edoho exchanging a handshake or brief embrace, though the nature of the interaction remains unclear.
Reactions on social media have been sharply divided. Some commentators, particularly women, criticised what they perceived as unfair treatment of Chike, arguing that the situation lacked confirmed evidence and should not influence public conduct. Others, largely invoking informal notions of loyalty, defended Edoho, suggesting that alleged involvement with a friend’s spouse crosses a line regardless of context.
Industry insiders say the incident reflects deeper cultural tensions within Nigeria’s entertainment circles, where personal relationships often intersect with public image. “These are private matters playing out in very public spaces,” one Lagos-based entertainment analyst said. “Events like this only amplify the scrutiny.”
Despite the controversy, the primary purpose of the gathering, to honour the life and legacy of Alexx Ekubo, remained central for many attendees, who shared tributes celebrating his contributions to Nollywood.
As the fallout from the allegations continues, it remains unclear whether the parties involved will address the issue further or allow it to fade from public view. For now, the episode highlights how unresolved personal disputes can cast long shadows, even over moments meant for collective mourning.
What this so called men are doing to Chike is not fair and it's messing with his mental health.
— Unwana🇳🇬✨ (@Iam_sistabibi) June 11, 2026
Imagine Chike trying to greet you and you ignored him bcos he's the devil and you're the saint abi?
Asif most of them don't cheat on their spouse
Mtchewww
I love how he minded his… pic.twitter.com/q929w9Lwv4