Outrage Trails Father-in-Law’s Reaction To Death Of US Based Nigerian Doctor

A father-in-law’s defense of his daughter over the tragic suicide of Nigerian doctor, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, in the U.S. has sparked widespread outrage and anger from the public.

The recent death of Dr. Ikenna Erinne, a U.S.-based Nigerian cardiologist, has sparked widespread reactions, with many questioning the role of his ex-wife, Suzette Chibuogu, in the tragic event. Her father, Francis Van-Lare, has firmly denied claims that his daughter was responsible for the incident, but his response has only fueled more controversy.

Dr. Erinne reportedly took his own life after holding his ex-wife, their children, and their nanny at gunpoint for three hours. According to Van-Lare, the situation escalated when the nanny escaped and called the police. Upon their arrival, Erinne allegedly ended his life to avoid being charged with “three counts of kidnapping with a deadly weapon,” which carried a possible sentence of “25 years to life on each count.”

Van-Lare took to Facebook to clear his daughter’s name. “While I sympathize with his family for his death, my daughter is not responsible for him taking his own life. I thank God it did not degenerate to where he shoots my daughter, grandchildren, and himself. May his soul rest in peace. Everyone is a loser here, and it is traumatizing for all, including me. No winners here,” he wrote.

However, Van-Lare’s remarks have been met with backlash, with many criticizing his tone and perceived lack of empathy for the deceased.

“Baddest father-in-law. No remorse at all. Who will speak for the dead?” one commenter, Friday Olokor, asked.

Others condemned the American legal system, which they believe unfairly disadvantages men in custody battles. “America should abolish this obnoxious law; it is doing much damage to men. May his soul rest in peace,” wrote Joshua Iriah Mohammed Adams.

Some accused Van-Lare and his daughter of pushing Erinne to his breaking point. “You can exonerate your daughter, but something led to him losing custody. God sees and knows all that is hidden,” Saheed Famuyiwa remarked.

Ndu Ndu did not hold back, saying, “An average person should be ashamed to have you as a father-in-law. You can never raise a decent child.”

There were also those who believed Erinne made a poor decision, both in his actions and in his choice of a partner. “We should begin to raise sons with stronger minds. Holding them at gunpoint? What happened to moving on?” Mike ‘Dichi Ugorji questioned.

Other reactions painted a grim picture of the situation. “If you try this with some dangerous guys, they will go after your family in Naija. Directly or indirectly, someone will also go down,” Friday Olokor warned.

Despite the heated debate, some commenters focused on the bigger picture. “The dead can’t speak. But in all you do, fight to live. The man won’t be wrong defending what is his. Na who die lose,” Omateyi Faith Attah Ukpoju wrote.

As the controversy continues, many are reflecting on the struggles men face in legal battles over child custody, while others are calling for more accountability and sensitivity from those involved. While opinions remain divided, one thing is clear—this tragic event has left deep wounds on all sides.

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