A 36-year-old Nigerian cardiologist based in the United States, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, tragically took his own life after losing a child support case to his ex-wife.
The incident occurred on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
A native of Anambra State, Dr. Erinne had been embroiled in a lengthy divorce battle with his estranged wife, particularly concerning the custody of their children.
Unfortunately, the court ruled in favor of his ex-wife, imposing a $15,000 monthly child support payment on him.
The devastating outcome led to severe financial distress for the doctor. Clayton Udo, a Nigerian-American, shared the news on X, highlighting the financial burden the court’s decision placed on Dr. Erinne.
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 specializes in psychological and mental abuse, revealed that Dr. Erinne had spent thousands of dollars on legal fees before the court ruling.
Tragically, he not only lost his license as a cardiologist but was also faced with the hefty child support payment and restricted access to his children.
“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,” Udo added.
Another member of the Nigerian community in the United States, Obim Onujiogu, also confirmed Dr. Erinne’s passing on Facebook.
Onujiogu remembered him as a compassionate healer and devoted family man, sharing that the funeral would take place on Monday in Maryland.
In his post, Onujiogu wrote, “In Loving Memory of Dr. Ikenna C. Erinne. It is with heavy hearts that the ASA DC family announces the sudden and untimely passing of Dr. Ikenna Erinne Dr. Ikenna C. Erinne, was a beloved father, son, brother, and esteemed cardiologist, who departed on January 26, 2025. Born on March 4, 1988, Dr. Erinne was a compassionate healer and devoted family man. He is survived by his children Ugonna and Munachi, parents Engr. Chris and Mrs. Chinwe Erinne, and siblings Chuks, Onyi, Kenny, and Gechi. A celebration of Life will be held on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home in Elkridge, MD, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by interment at Meadowridge Memorial Park.”
