The Nigerian community in the United States has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of a 36-year-old cardiologist, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, who reportedly took his own life after a prolonged legal battle over child support.
The Anambra-born doctor, who had been entangled in a bitter divorce and custody dispute with his ex-wife, was ordered by a US court to pay $15,000 in monthly child support.
The financial strain, coupled with the loss of his medical license, allegedly pushed him to the brink.
According to reports, Dr. Erinne had spent thousands of dollars in legal fees during his divorce proceedings, only to face a ruling that granted custody to his ex-wife while imposing a hefty child support payment.
A Nigerian-American, Clayton Udo, confirmed the incident on X.com, decrying what he described as the systemic challenges African men face in the US legal system.
“The abuse of African men in the USA must come to an end. 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. This tragic incident highlights the systemic issues within the legal system that disproportionately affect African men,” Udo wrote.
He further claimed that Dr. Erinne, overwhelmed by legal and financial pressures, lost his license to practice medicine before his death.
“He spent thousands of dollars in legal fees—wasted money. I am talking about a process that impoverishes you. He lost his medical license and was given a heavy financial burden, plus restricted access to his children,” Udo alleged.
Another US-based Nigerian, Obim Onujiogu, also confirmed the death in a Facebook post, describing Dr. Erinne as a compassionate healer and devoted family man.
“It is with heavy hearts that the ASA DC family announces the sudden and untimely passing of Dr. Ikenna Erinne. Born on March 4, 1988, he was a beloved father, son, brother, and esteemed cardiologist,” Onujiogu wrote.
Dr. Erinne is survived by his two children, Ugonna and Munachi, as well as his parents and siblings.
A funeral service in his honor is scheduled to take place on Monday, February 3, 2025, at the Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home in Elkridge, Maryland. His remains will be interred at Meadowridge Memorial Park.
