I'm Personally Devastated, I Was Hoping He Would Recover – Peter Obi Mourns Chimamanda Adichie’s Son

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed his condolences over the passing of Nkanu Nnamdi, the son of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

In a post shared on X, Obi revealed that he had been aware of the child’s health struggles days before his death.

He said Chimamanda personally informed him about Nkanu’s illness on January 2, after which he followed the situation closely with concern and prayers, hoping the boy would recover.

Obi described the news of Nkanu’s passing as deeply painful and said it left him heartbroken, especially thinking about the emotional pain Chimamanda is going through as a mother.

He also expressed sympathy for her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, and the entire family.

He said that the loss is one no parent should have to endure and prayed for God’s strength, comfort, and grace for the family as they mourn.

Obi also prayed that the soul of the late child finds eternal rest.

With Deepest Sympathy on the Loss of Nkanu

I have been following Nkanu's illness since my beloved sister, Chimamanda, first informed me on January 2nd. During this difficult time, I felt a deep sense of empathy for her and her family. I shared in their anxiety, prayed earnestly,…

— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) January 8, 2026

Nkanu aged a year and nine months, died on January 7 after a brief illness.

The family confirmed the death in a statement and described their loss as deeply devastating.

They have asked for privacy and prayers as they mourn.

Chimamanda and her husband also have a daughter (born in 2016) and the surviving twin brother.