BREAKING: Chimamanda Adichie loses 21-month-old son

Globally celebrated author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, have suffered the painful loss of one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi, who passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

The death was confirmed in a statement issued by Omawumi Ogbe, which said the child died after a brief illness. He was 21 months old.

“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,” the statement read.

It added that the family has been left devastated by the loss and appealed for privacy during the period of mourning.

“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,” the statement said.

According to the family, no further statements will be issued, as they seek seclusion to grieve their son.