A death has occurred in the family of the world-renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. The celebrated writer and her husband, Ivara Esege, are mourning the loss of one of their twin boys, Nkanu Nnamdi.
The tragic news was confirmed on Wednesday by Adichie’s Communications Team in a statement signed by Omawumi Ogbe.
According to the release, shared exclusively with guardian.ng, Nkanu passed away on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, following a brief illness. He was 21 months old.
The family has described the loss as “devastating” and has made an urgent appeal for seclusion. In the statement, they requested that both the public and the media respect their privacy during what they termed an “incredibly difficult time.”
The family further requested prayers and understanding as they mourn the toddler in private. The Communications Team noted that no further statements would be issued regarding the tragedy.
The announcement concluded with an expression of gratitude toward the public and the media for their empathy and for respecting the family’s need for space during this period of profound grief.
•Featured image: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie/guardian.ng
