Renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, are mourning the loss of one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi, who passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 21 months old following a brief illness.
In a statement released on behalf of the family by Omawumi Ogbe, the couple expressed profound grief and requested privacy during this difficult time. The statement reads in part:
“We’re deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of Ms Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr Ivara Esege’s twin boys, Nkanu Nnamdi, who passed on Wednesday, 7th of January 2026, after a brief illness. He was 21 months old.
The family is devastated by this profound loss, and we request that their privacy be respected 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 their need for seclusion during this period of immense grief.”
The family’s statement underscores the couple’s wish for seclusion as they navigate this deeply sorrowful moment.#newsafro_
