By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigeria’s literary icon, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, is grieving the painful loss of her son, Nkanu, who passed away after a period of illness.
The tragic news, which surfaced on January 8, 2026, has sparked a wave of public sympathy and condolences from Nigerians and prominent figures across the country.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was among the first to express his sorrow publicly with a statement issued from the presidency.
Drawing from his own experience of personal loss, he noted that no grief compares to that of losing a child.
“I empathize with the family at this difficult time, and I mourn this sad loss with them,” Tinubu said.
Presidential candidate and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi also shared his sorrow publicly. In a heartfelt message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Obi revealed he had been aware of Nkanu’s illness since January 2, after being informed by Chimamanda herself. He shared how he had prayed earnestly for the boy’s recovery and was devastated by the eventual loss.
“I am personally devastated, thinking of the immense pain my dear sister must be experiencing as a mother,” Obi wrote. He extended his condolences to Chimamanda, her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, and the entire family, praying for strength to bear the sorrow and for Nkanu’s soul to rest in peace.
Former vice president Atiku Abubakar has also joined other prominent Nigerians in condoling with award-winning author Chimamanda Adichie over the death of her son, Nkanu.
“There can be no loss like the loss of a child,” he wrote, expressing his sympathy to both the Adichie and Esege families. He extended his thoughts and prayers to the grieving famy and their loved ones, praying that God grants them “strength, peace, and solace” as they navigate this difficult time.
Since the breakout of the news, it has triggered an outpouring of grief from admirers of Chimamanda and sympathizers both within and outside Nigeria.
Tributes continue to pour in as the public mourns with the Adichie family over the heartbreaking loss.
