Renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, have suffered the loss of one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi.
In a statement issued on Thursday by Omawumi Ogbe on behalf of the family, it was confirmed that the 21-month-old passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a brief illness.
The family expressed deep devastation over the loss and has requested privacy as they grieve.
The statement read in part: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege’s twin boys, Nkanu Nnamdi, who died on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after a brief illness. He was 21 months old.
“The family is heartbroken by this profound loss and respectfully asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult time. We ask for your grace and prayers as they mourn in private. No further statements will be made, and we thank the public and the media for respecting the family’s need for seclusion during this period of immense grief.”
