Nigerian Doctor in America have committed suicide over $15,000 child support.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that Dr. Ikenna Erinne, a 36-year-old Nigerian cardiologist living in the United States (U.S.), has taken his own life after losing a legal battle over child support.
The tragic event occurred on Sunday, January 26.
Erinne, originally from Anambra State, had been involved in a prolonged dispute with his ex-wife regarding custody and financial responsibilities for their children.
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A U.S. court ruled in favour of his former spouse, mandating that he pay $15,000 in monthly child support.
The ruling placed him under severe financial and emotional distress.
Nigerian-American Clayton Udo confirmed the incident in a post on X.com, stating that the overwhelming burden of the court’s decision contributed to Erinne’s demise.
“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, 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 said.
Clayton Udo, who identified himself as an expert in psychological and mental abuse, revealed that Dr. Ikenna Erinne had spent a significant amount of money on legal fees before the court ultimately ruled in favor of his ex-wife.
Udo stated that the prolonged legal battle drained Erinne financially and cost him his medical license, further worsening his situation.
He added that the cardiologist died by suicide, shooting himself after the devastating court ruling.
“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 said.
“He lost his license as a cardiologist in this case plus they slammed on him 15,000 dollars a month plus restricted access to his children,” he added.
Obim Onujiogu, a member of the Nigerian community in the United States, also confirmed Dr. Ikenna Erinne’s passing in a Facebook post.
Onujiogu described Erinne as a dedicated physician and a loving family man, highlighting his compassionate nature.
He further announced that the late cardiologist’s funeral would take place on Monday, February 3, 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 said.
“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 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,” he added.
