US-Based Nigerian Cardiologist, Ikenna Erinne, Dies by Suicide After Losing Child Support Case
A 36-year-old Nigerian cardiologist based in the United States, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, has reportedly taken his own life after losing a child support case to his ex-wife, whose identity remains undisclosed.
The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Confirming the news in a post on X.com, Nigerian-American Clayton Udo stated that the court’s ruling imposed a severe financial burden on Dr. Erinne, which ultimately led to his death.
Udo wrote:
“The abuse of African men in the USA must come to an end. In a deeply troubling case, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, an American-trained cardiologist, allegedly took his own life after an American court ordered him to pay his ex-wife $15,000 monthly, following a prolonged and contentious divorce case. This tragic incident highlights the systemic issues within the legal system that disproportionately affect African men.”
Udo, who claims to be an expert in psychological and mental abuse, revealed that Dr. Erinne had spent thousands of dollars in legal fees before the court ruled in favor of his estranged wife.
“He shot himself to death. He spent thousands of dollars in legal fees – wasted money. I am talking about a process that impoverishes you. You go to court, and they take all your money.
“He lost his license as a cardiologist in this case, plus they slammed on him $15,000 a month in child support and restricted his access to his children,” he added.
Another member of the Nigerian community in the U.S., Obim Onujiogu, confirmed Dr. Erinne’s death in a Facebook post, describing him as a compassionate healer and devoted family man.
Onujiogu also shared funeral arrangements, stating that a celebration of life will be held on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home in Elkridge, Maryland, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by interment at Meadowridge Memorial Park.
Dr. Erinne, born on March 4, 1988, is survived by his children, Ugonna and Munachi; his parents, Engr. Chris and Mrs. Chinwe Erinne; and his siblings, Chuks, Onyi, Kenny, and Gechi.
