Renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, have lost one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi.
The family confirmed the loss in a statement issued on Thursday by Omawumi Ogbe. According to the statement, the 21-month-old child passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after a brief illness.
The statement said the family is devastated by the loss and appealed to the public and the media to respect their privacy as they grieve.
“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 statement read.
“The family is devastated by this profound loss and requests 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.”
