Prominent Nigerian Writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, have tragically lost one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi.
Omawumi Ogbe released a statement on Thursday on behalf of the family to confirm the death of the 21-month-old child on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, due to a brief illness.
The statement expressed that the family is heartbroken over the loss and asked for their privacy to be respected during this challenging period.
“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 statement read.