Celebrated Author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, medical doctor Ivara Esege, are mourning the death of their infant son, one of twin boys, following a brief illness that claimed his life earlier this week, local media reported.
The child, named Nkanu Nnamdi, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, in circumstances not detailed by the family, according to broadcaster Arise News.
The statement reads, “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.”
Adichie, 48, renowned for novels such as “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Americanah,” has not publicly commented on the loss, with reports indicating the family is seeking privacy during this period of grief.
The tragedy marks a personal hardship for the feminist icon and TED Talk speaker, who divides her time between Nigeria and the United States, and comes amid her ongoing literary and advocacy work.
