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

The heartbreaking news was confirmed in a statement released on Thursday by Omawumi Ogbe on behalf of the family. It disclosed that the beloved child passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after a brief illness. He was just 21 months old.

The statement conveyed the depth of the family’s sorrow, describing them as shattered by the loss of their young son. It also appealed for compassion and understanding from the public and the media as they navigate this period of profound grief.

“We are heartbroken to confirm the passing of one of Ms Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr Ivara Esege’s twin boys, Nkanu Nnamdi, who died on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a short illness. He was 21 months old,” the statement read.

“The family is devastated by this tragic loss and respectfully asks for privacy as they grieve during this extremely painful time.”