Chimamanda Adichie loses 21-month-old son
Chimamanda Adichie. DUSSELDORF, GERMANY – SEPTEMBER 08: Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie attends a panel discussion with German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the Schauspielhaus theatre on September 8, 2021 in Dusseldorf, Germany. The event is launching the new theatre season. (Photo by Friedemann Vogel – Pool/Getty Images)
The globally renowned author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, have lost one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi.
Omawumi Ogbe confirmed his death in a statement issued on behalf of the family on Thursday.
According to the statement, the 21-month-old passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after a brief illness.
The statement reads, “We’re deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of Ms Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie & 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.”
