By Olaitan Ibrahim
Francis Van-Lare, a Nigerian businessman, has refuted claims that his daughter, Suzette Chibuogu, was responsible for the death of her ex-husband, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, a U.S.-based Nigerian cardiologist who reportedly took his own life.
Dr. Erinne, a 36-year-old medical professional from Anambra State, tragically passed away on Sunday, January 26. However, conflicting accounts surrounding the events leading to his death have surfaced.
Van-Lare, addressing the situation, shared his side of the story, revealing that Dr. Erinne had visited his daughter’s residence on the day of the incident. According to him, the cardiologist held his daughter, their children, and the nanny at gunpoint for three hours. The tension escalated when the nanny managed to escape and contacted law enforcement.
Van-Lare alleged that when police arrived at the scene, Dr. Erinne, facing the potential charges of “three counts of kidnapping with a deadly weapon”—which could carry sentences of up to 25 years to life per charge—decided to end his own life rather than face the legal consequences.
On his Facebook page, Van-Lare wrote,
He concluded by acknowledging the trauma of the situation, stating, “Everyone is a loser here. It is traumatizing for all, including me. No winners here. May his soul rest in peace.”
This tragic incident has left many questioning the events that unfolded, as both families continue to deal with the emotional aftermath.