Chimamanda Adichie, Husband Dr Ivara Esege Mourn Death of Twin Son

Renowned Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, are mourning the death of one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi.

The family confirmed the loss in a statement issued on Thursday by Omawumi Ogbe on their behalf. According to the statement, the 21-month-old child passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a brief illness.

Describing the loss as devastating, the family appealed to the public and the media to respect their privacy as they grieve.

“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.

It added that the family is mourning in private and will not be making further statements at this time, while requesting grace, prayers, and understanding during what was described as an incredibly difficult period of profound grief.