The Nigerian and medical communities are mourning the tragic loss of Dr. Ikenna Erinne, a 36-year-old U.S.-based cardiologist, who reportedly took his own life on January 26, 2025.
Dr. Erinne, originally from Anambra State, had been battling a prolonged divorce and custody dispute with his ex-wife.
A recent U.S. court ruling ordered him to pay $15,000 in monthly child support, a decision that reportedly left him financially and emotionally devastated.
Friends and members of the Nigerian community in the U.S. believe the stress from the ruling played a major role in his tragic decision.
According to reports, Erinne had spent thousands of dollars in legal fees and ultimately lost not only custody of his children but also his medical license.
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A friend and fellow Nigerian-American, Clayton Udo, expressed frustration over the case, stating that it highlights deeper systemic issues affecting African men in the U.S.
Udo wrote on X, “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.”
He explained also that the late doctor lost his license as a cardiologist to the case, and that he died after shooting 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 on him 15,000 dollars a month plus restricted access to his children,” he added.
Erinne’s funeral is scheduled for February 3, 2025, at the Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home in Maryland.
Dr. Erinne is remembered as a compassionate physician, devoted father, and beloved son and brother. He is survived by his two children, Ugonna and Munachi, as well as his parents and siblings.
His passing has left many asking tough questions about divorce issues, financial stress, and legal challenges faced by immigrants in the U.S.
