Globally acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, have tragically lost one of their twin sons, Nkanu Nnamdi, at 21 months old.

A statement released by Omawumi Ogbe confirmed that Nkanu passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a brief illness.

The statement reads:

“We’re deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie & Dr. Ivara Esege’s twin boys, Nkanu Nnamdi, who passed on Wednesday, 7th of January 2026, after a brief illness. 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 couple and their family are asking for privacy and understanding as they navigate this period of immense sorrow.