Renowned Nigerian Author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, has lost her 21-month-old twin son, Nkanu Nnamdi Esege.
Nkanu reportedly died January 7, 2026, after a brief illness.
The Author and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, have requested privacy and respect during this difficult time, expressing gratitude for public understanding and asking for prayers as they grieve privately.
They were married in 2009, with three children, before this mishap.
Nkanu Nnamdi was one of the couple’s twin sons, born in 2024.
Chimamanda Adichie is known for her previous award-winning novels like “Americanah” and “Half of a Yellow Sun”.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by Omawumi Ogbe, on behalf of the family, the baby passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after a brief illness.
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.”
