Cardiologist Commits Suicide Over Child Support

By Iyojo Ameh

A United States-based Nigerian cardiologist, Dr. Ikenna C. Erinne, has reportedly has committed suicide following a court ruling that ordered him to pay $15,000 in monthly child support to his ex-wife.

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, January 26, 2025. Dr. Erinne, a 36-year-old indigene of Anambra State, Nigeria, had been engaged in a prolonged and contentious divorce and child custody battle. The legal dispute culminated in a U.S. court decision that placed him under significant financial strain.

The news of his death was confirmed by Clayton Udo, a Nigerian-American, in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Udo attributed the doctor’s passing to the overwhelming financial burden imposed by the court’s judgment, which he claimed had pushed Erinne into despair.

Reports indicate that the situation underscores broader concerns within the Nigerian-American community regarding the challenges African men face in the U.S. legal system, especially in matters of divorce, child custody, and financial obligations.

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,” Udo wrote.

“This tragic incident highlights the systemic issues within the legal system that disproportionately affect African men,” he added.

Udo who identified himself as an expert in psychological and mental abuse, explained that the deceased had spent thousands of dollars in legal fees before the court’s verdict turned out in favour of his ex-wife, as well as losing his license to the case.

“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 revealed.

“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.

Also, Obim Onujiogu, another member of the Nigerian community in the United States, confirmed Erinne’s death.

Onujiogu described the late cardiologist as a compassionate healer and devoted family man.

Onujiogu shared the funeral details in a post on Facebook, announcing the funeral would take place on Monday, February 3, 2025, in Maryland, U.S.

“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 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.”