US-based Nigerian doctor dies by suicide over $15,000 child support

A 36-year-old Nigerian cardiologist based in the United States, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, has reportedly died by suicide after losing a child support case against his ex-wife.

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, January 26.

Dr. Erinne, originally from Anambra State, had been involved in a prolonged legal battle over divorce and child custody.

However, a U.S. court ruled in favor of his ex-wife, ordering him to pay $15,000 in monthly child support.

Confirming the incident on X.com, Nigerian-American Clayton Udo stated that the court's ruling placed a severe financial burden on Dr. Erinne, which ultimately led to his tragic death.

"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 systemic issues within the legal system that disproportionately affect African men," Udo wrote.

Udo, who claimed expertise in psychological and mental abuse, revealed that Dr. Erinne had spent thousands of dollars in legal fees before the court's verdict. He further alleged that the late doctor lost his medical license due to the case and ultimately shot himself.

"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 him with $15,000 a month in child support and restricted access to his children," Udo added.

Another member of the Nigerian community in the U.S., Obim Onujiogu, also confirmed Dr. Erinne's passing in a Facebook post, describing him as a compassionate healer and devoted family man.

Funeral Arrangements

Dr. Erinne's funeral is scheduled to take place on Monday, February 3, 2025, in Maryland, USA.

"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," Onujiogu wrote.

Born on March 4, 1988, Dr. Erinne is survived by his children, Ugonna and Munachi, his parents, Engr. Chris and Mrs. Chinwe Erinne, and his siblings, Chuks, Onyi, Kenny, and Gechi.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home in Elkridge, MD, on Monday, February 3, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by interment at Meadowridge Memorial Park.