Washington D.C., USA – The Nigerian and medical communities in the United States have been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of 36-year-old Nigerian-American cardiologist, Dr. Ikenna Erinne. The Anambra-born doctor reportedly took his own life on Sunday, January 26, after losing a high-stakes divorce and child support case to his ex-wife.

Dr. Erinne, a highly trained cardiologist, had been entangled in a prolonged legal battle over the custody and financial support of his children. The case, which ended unfavorably for him, saw a US court ruling in favor of his ex-wife, mandating him to pay $15,000 in monthly child support.

According to sources close to the deceased, including Nigerian-American activist Clayton Udo, the legal battle had drained Erinne both financially and emotionally. Udo, who identifies as a specialist in psychological and mental abuse, confirmed the doctor had spent thousands of dollars in legal fees before the final court verdict.

“The abuse of African men in the USA must come to an end,” Udo lamented in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “Dr. Ikenna Erinne, an American-trained cardiologist, allegedly took his own life after being ordered to pay $15,000 monthly in child support. This tragic incident highlights systemic issues within the legal system that disproportionately affect African men.”

Reports also indicate that in addition to the financial burden, Erinne’s medical license was revoked, further worsening his plight. Left with mounting debts and limited access to his children, the doctor allegedly succumbed to despair and fatally shot himself.

Dr. Erinne’s death has sparked widespread reactions, especially among Nigerian and African communities in the U.S., who have expressed concerns over the psychological impact of stringent child support rulings. Many believe that the court’s decision placed an unbearable burden on him, ultimately leading to his tragic demise.

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

His sudden passing has reignited debates about the financial and emotional toll of divorce proceedings, particularly on men, and has prompted calls for a reevaluation of family court policies in the United States.