Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, are mourning the heartbreaking loss of one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi.
The 21-month-old boy passed away on Wednesday following a brief illness, leaving the family devastated.
In a statement released on Thursday by her representative, Omawumi Ogbe, the family expressed their sorrow and requested privacy during this difficult time.
“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 statement read.
The family described the loss as profoundly painful and appealed to the public and media to respect their need for seclusion.
“The family is devastated by this profound loss, and we request that their privacy be respected during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement added.
They further asked for prayers and understanding, noting that no additional comments would be made.
“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.”
Chimamanda Adichie, 48, married Dr Esege, a Nigerian medical professional, in 2009. The couple has three children: a daughter born in 2016 and twin boys who arrived in 2024.
