Three Nigerians based in the United States of America, Olumide Olorunfunmi, Samson Amos and Emmanuel Unuigbe, could be sentenced to a combined jail term of 60 years for alleged money laundering to the tune of $4.5m.

TheNigerian Metro learnt in a statement by the US Department of Justice obtained on Sunday that the trio conspired among themselves to launder money which caused losses to about 125 victims in the US.

It added that the laundered money was proceeds from romance scams and business email compromise schemes.

The statement noted that while the duo of Amos and Unuigbe pleaded guilty in 2023, Olorunfunmi admitted guilty while being arraigned before a federal court on Friday.

It read, “Olumide Olorunfunmi, 39, a Nigerian national, appeared in federal court in Charlotte today and pleaded guilty to money laundering conspiracy for laundering millions in criminal proceeds linked to romance scams and business email compromise schemes.

“According to documents filed with the court and today’s plea hearing, the scheme caused more than 125 victims to transfer over $4.5 million of proceeds stemming from illegal activities.”

“Two of Olorunfunmi’s co-conspirators, both Nigerian nationals, have also pleaded guilty to federal charges and are awaiting sentencing.”

Stressing the individual’s role in the scheme, the statement noted that the victims were directed to deposit money into accounts controlled by Amos and his co-conspirators who then transferred the monies to accounts in Nigeria.

The schemes, which were orchestrated between 2020 and 2023, also saw the defendants keeping a percentage of the monies that were deposited by the victims.

It continued, “As Olorunfunmi admitted in court today, from 2020 through 2023, Olorunfunmi conspired with Amos, Unuigbe, and others to launder the criminal proceeds of various illegal activities, including romance scams that typically targeted elderly victims and business email compromise schemes.

“Court records show that the victims of the schemes were directed to transfer funds into domestic and international bank accounts controlled by Olorunfunmi and his co-conspirators. Upon receiving the fraud proceeds, Olorunfunmi and his co-conspirators transferred the funds to other bank accounts, in the U.S. and overseas.

“They also profited by agreeing to ‘pay’ for the domestic deposits received by others by transferring Nigerian Naira from accounts the co-conspirators controlled in Nigeria to other accounts, based upon a “black market” exchange rate for United States Dollars to Naira.”

The statement concluded that each of the defendants risks 20 20-year jail term for the offence of conspiracy.

“The charge of money laundering conspiracy carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. A sentencing date has not been set,” it concluded.

A United States-based cleric, Bishop Kenneth Obi, has been left stranded in Nigeria while lamenting the refusal of an American airline, Delta Airlines, to allow him to board his flight back to the US.

Obi, who arrived in Nigeria on February 18 for a church anniversary, attended a programme in Edo State from February 19 to 21 before travelling to Imo State for another event from March 5 to 9.

However, on March 12, while preparing to leave Imo State, the cleric said he discovered that his green card was missing.

Obi who spoke to TheNigerian Metro on Saturday however said the e-copy of the green card and other travel documents he presented on getting to the airport were rejected.

He said, “I came to Nigeria from the US where I have been living for over 40 years and I arrived on February 18 for our church anniversary. The first programme was held in Edo from February 19 – 21. And I thereafter proceeded to Imo State for the second anniversary from March 5–9. When I finished the programme, I prepared to leave because I had a return ticket, my flight left Atlanta on February 17 and went back on March  19.

“On March 12, while preparing to leave Imo State, I discovered that I could not find my green card. So, I made a police report, got an affidavit and having got the police to extract a copy of the e-copy of my green card attached, I came to Lagos to board my flight but unfortunately, my flight was cancelled on March 19. So, I met with one of the managers of the airline and I explained my situation and they sent me to the embassy.”

According to him, the embassy officials confirmed the validity of his documents and stated that the airline should allow him to board.

He, however, said the airline representatives refused, insisting that he needed official travel documents from the embassy before he could travel.

“So, I went back to the embassy where they told me that if the airline could not board me, then I needed to begin the process of getting travel documents but they did not specify how long it would take,” he added.

Obi, frustrated by the delay, said his prolonged stay in Nigeria was causing him financial and emotional distress.

He also called on the appropriate authorities to intervene in his plight.

“I have been living in the United States for over 40 years and I have been a green card holder for more than 38 years. I am just confused right now and I hope the appropriate authorities will do something about this as soon as possible.

“I have all the documentation, but it is just that I don’t have the physical green card. This is so frustrating because my continual stay here will bring untold hardship to myself and to my family who are in the US,” he added.

Reacting, Delta Airlines in a statement signed by its management and seen by our correspondent on Sunday said photocopies of original travel documents were not considered valid for international travel.

The statement added that the passenger was advised to visit the U.S. Embassy to obtain the necessary travel documentation according to standard procedure.

“Delta would like to clarify the circumstances regarding a recent passenger inquiry. The individual in question presented a photocopy of a U.S. Green Card at our check-in counter, stating that the original was lost in Nigeria. As per international travel regulations, airlines are only permitted to accept original travel documents, such as passports and Residence Permits. Photocopies are not considered valid for international travel.

“By standard procedures, the passenger was advised to visit the U.S. Embassy to obtain the necessary travel documentation. Upon returning, the passenger informed us that the embassy required additional time to process his request. He then requested that the airline send the photocopy of his document to the U.S. authorities for approval.

“Our team reiterated that the only viable options were for him to await the embassy’s response or to return to the embassy and emphasize the urgency of his travel situation. As the issuing authority, only the embassy can provide the necessary transportation letter or replacement document.”

The airline however assured the passenger that his ticket would remain open until he obtained the appropriate travel documents.

“As per global airline policies, international carriers cannot accept photocopies of travel documents or passports for boarding. Delta remains committed to upholding international travel regulations while ensuring the best possible support for our passengers. We encourage all travellers to verify their documentation requirements before arriving at the airport to avoid any inconvenience,” the statement added.

Two Nigerians based in the United States of America, Solomon Aluko and Nosakhare Nobore, alongside four others, are at risk of 62 years’ imprisonment each following their arraignment before a New York court on allegations of defrauding the US government to the tune of $50m.

TheNigerian Metro gathered from a court document obtained on the US Department of Justice website on Sunday that the suspects were arraigned on four counts bordering on conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, engaging in a monetary transaction in property derived from specified unlawful activity, conspiracy to defraud the government, and aggravated identity theft.

The court document indicated that the suspects committed the offences between March 2020 and March 2025, in the Southern District of New York and across other places in the US.

The charge sheet noted that “the defendants, and others, worked together to steal money that did not belong to them by passing counterfeit, stolen, and fraudulently obtained cheques. They submitted the cheques to banks and then withdrew or transferred funds before the banks could determine that the cheques were counterfeit, stolen, or fraudulent.”

According to the document, the defendants allegedly stole information and identities of different individuals and businesses and used the information and identities to open bank accounts through one of their members, who was a bank teller at the time.

The bank accounts were allegedly used to deposit fraudulently obtained cheques from different US agencies.

It continued, “Once the cheques were deposited, the defendants withdrew the fraudulently obtained funds in cash or transferred them to other bank accounts under their control.

“Throughout their scheme, the defendants attempted to obtain approximately $80 million in total. They succeeded in depositing approximately $50 million.”

In a statement accompanying the document on the DoJ website, it was revealed that the suspects created a ‘fraud bible’, which contained specific instructions on how each member of the syndicate would operate.

It further noted that the syndicate also openly communicated its operations via a Telegram group where discussions on their operations were held.

Commenting on the activities of the syndicate, the statement quoted the US FBI Acting Assistant Director, Leslie R. Backschies, as saying, “These six defendants allegedly used sham businesses, stolen, and fake identities to operate a multi-year cheque fraud scheme, resulting in $50 million in illicit funds being deposited into their accounts.

“The defendants brazenly attempted to exploit multiple United States government programmes in their attempts to illegally enrich themselves. The FBI will continue to ensure fraudsters attempting to lie, cheat, and steal from the government answer for their crimes in the criminal justice system.”

Similarly, the US IRS Special Agent in Charge of the case, Harry Chavis, said, “This group of suspects openly communicated about their fraud, taking pride in the multiple schemes that stole nearly $50 million from the American public.

“They lied and cheated a benefits system meant to help struggling businesses that need it, all while stealing cheques from agencies that assist the elderly and veterans. This gang of ‘bag hunters’ will now face justice for multiple charges.”

Following their indictment, the statement noted that the suspects could be sentenced to 62 years imprisonment each for the four counts.

It acknowledged that the defendants were presumed innocent until proven guilty by the court.

“Anand, 34, of Queens, New York; Nobore, 29, of Edgewater, New Jersey; Pappas, 28, of Miami, Florida; Ujkic, 44, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; Aluko, 29, of Hackensack, New Jersey; and Gonzalez, 28, of North Bergen, New Jersey, are each charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison; conspiracy to commit money laundering and engaging in a monetary transaction in property derived from specific unlawful activity, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; conspiracy to defraud the government, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; and aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory sentence of two years in prison.

“The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.

“The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty,” the statement concluded.

A Nigerian woman based in the United States of America, Funke Iyanda, is at risk of 10 years imprisonment following her indictment in a $40,980 unemployment benefit fraud.

TheNigerian Metro learnt in a statement by the US Department of Justice on Thursday that Iyanda was an illegal resident of the US and was not entitled to the benefit for which she filed claims.

The statement noted that between May 2020 and May 2021, the suspect applied for the unemployment benefit scheme using another person’s identity and received a sum of $40,980.

The statement read, “A Nigerian national residing in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of theft of government property. The one-count Indictment named Funke Iyanda, 43, with no U.S. status, as the sole defendant.

“According to the Indictment, from May 27, 2020, to May 24, 2021, Iyanda prepared and submitted a false application and claim for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits in the name of another person to the PA Department of Labour, for which Iyanda received approximately $40,980 in unemployment benefits to which Iyanda was not legally entitled.”

The statement continued that if found guilty, the suspect could be sentenced to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

It acknowledged that the suspect was considered innocent until proved otherwise by the court.

“The law provides for a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.

“Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence would be based on the seriousness of the offence and the defendant’s prior criminal history, if any.

“An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty,” the statement concluded.

TheNigerian Metro reported on March 5 that a US-based Professor of Nigeria origin, Gordian Ndubizu, was sentenced to two years imprisonment by a Trenton federal court for tax evasion.

The DoJ noted that Ndubizu alongside his wife, ran a pharmacy that earned about $3.28m in income, resulting in the evasion of approximately $1.25m in tax due and owing between 2014 and 2017.

A United States-based Professor of Nigeria origin, Gordian Ndubizu, has been sentenced to two years imprisonment by a Trenton federal court for tax evasion.

TheNigerian Metro gathered in a statement by the US Department of Justice on Tuesday that Ndubizu, aside from being a Professor of Accounting, also co-owned a pharmacy company whose earning was not declared.

The statement noted that Ndubizu alongside his wife, ran the pharmacy which earned about $3.28m in income, resulting in the evasion of approximately $1.25m in tax due and owing between 2014 and 2017.

It read, “A Mercer County, New Jersey man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for evading federal income taxes and filing false tax returns, acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna announced.

“During tax years 2014 through 2017, Ndubizu was a professor of accounting at a university in Pennsylvania as well as the co-owner of Healthcare Pharmacy in Trenton, New Jersey. Healthcare Pharmacy was organised as an S corporation, the income of which flowed through to Ndubizu and his wife and was to be reported on their personal income tax returns.

“Ndubizu failed to report approximately $3.28 million in income from the pharmacy, resulting in the evasion of approximately $1.25 million in tax due and owing.”

The statement added that the couple prepared fraudulent tax documents and transferred the earnings from the pharmacy to an automobile company’s account in Nigeria which was controlled by the convict.

“Ndubizu prepared fraudulent books and records for Healthcare Pharmacy inflating the pharmacy’s costs of goods sold to reduce and underreport the pharmacy’s actual profits flowing through to Ndubizu and his wife.

“In the fraudulent books and records, among other things, Ndubizu identified certain wire transfers as payments to purchase goods sold by the pharmacy when those wire transfers were made to personal bank accounts under Ndubizu’s control and to bank accounts in Nigeria associated with an automotive company under Ndubizu’s control.

“Each of Ndubizu’s tax returns for tax years 2014 through 2017 falsely underreported his income and falsely reported that he had no financial interest in or signature authority over any foreign bank accounts.”

It stated that the convict was charged with eight counts but was convicted on four counts bordering on false tax returns.

“Gordian A. Ndubizu, of Princeton Junction, New Jersey, was convicted on August 15, 2024, of all eight counts of an indictment charging him with four counts of tax evasion and four counts of filing false tax returns in tax years 2014 through 2017, following a four-day trial before U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi, who imposed the sentence today (March 3) in Trenton federal court,” the statement concluded.

Ndubizu’s conviction joined the list of Nigerians who have been convicted in the US for various offences bordering on fraud, and romance scams among others.

TheNigerian Metro reported on December 6 that two Nigerians, Okechuckwu Osuji and Tolulope Bodunde, who were co-conspirators in a business email compromise scheme, were sentenced to a combined jail term of 10 years by a United States federal jury.

Osuji and Bodunde were jailed following their conviction in a fraudulent scheme that targeted US companies and elderly citizens, leading to a loss of about $6m to their victims.

Similarly, on December 20, our correspondent reported that a US-based Nigerian, Oluwole Adegboruwa, and his accomplice, Enrique Isong, were sentenced to 40 years combined jail term for coordinating the sales and distribution of a banned drug through the dark web across several states in the US.

Adegboruwa led a syndicate of drug peddlers whom he instructed on how drugs obtained by customers through a dark web marketplace were packaged and distributed.

A Nigerian medical doctor based in the United States, Ojo Oluwatosin, is seeking protection from the Lagos State Commissioner of Justice, Lawal Pedro, and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, against suspected unknown thugs over a parcel of land in the Lekki area of the state.

In an SOS message signed by his lawyer, Ayodele Osanyinlusi, and shared with our correspondent on Monday, the medical doctor stated that the land, currently under litigation in the Lagos State High Court’s lands division, was intended for the construction of a medical hospital.

“Upon the commencement of work and mobilising workers to the land, over 20 thugs stormed the land that was under construction to drive out the workers and other security people,” the SOS partly read.

Meanwhile, a certified true copy of a court ruling dated December 10, 2024, issued by Honourable Justice Akinkunmi Idowu, granted an interlocutory injunction in favour of Oluwatosin, restraining all defendants in the case from approaching the land.

Justice Idowu ruled, “An order for an interlocutory injunction restraining the respondents, whether by themselves, their servants or agents, or privies or otherwise, whoever from trespassing, harassing, or going into the land or carrying out any activities whatsoever on the land, pending the hearing and determination of the suit.

“An order for an interlocutory injunction restraining the defendants, whether by themselves, their servants, or agents, or privies, or otherwise, from using force, thugs, the police, or other agencies of the Federal Government to harass, intimidate, or break into the property… pending the hearing and determination of this suit.”

However, Oluwatosin stated that despite the court ruling, unidentified thugs continued to visit the land on weekends, intimidating and harassing workers.

He called on Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, and the Lagos State Attorney General, Lawal Pedro, to protect his investment and safeguard his life from the suspected perpetrators.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Osanyinlusi called on the authorities to safeguard his client’s life and property, warning that urgent intervention was needed to prevent the situation from escalating into violence.

He said, “We do not want violence or chaos. We are law-abiding Nigerians, which is why we are calling on the police and well-meaning citizens to help prevent any bloodshed.”

When asked about the alleged threats and harassment related to the land dispute during a phone conversation with TheNigerian Metro on Monday, Oseni Akerele, a lawyer representing one of the defendants in the suit, declined to comment, stating that he would not speak on a matter currently before the court.

“It will be contemptuous of me to make any comment or statement regarding the case since we have all submitted ourselves to the court’s jurisdiction. If anybody has any grievance, let them go back to the court. We are still in court. The matter has just been adjourned,” Akerele stated before ending the phone conversation.

Residents of Murrieta Community, California, are seeking $100,000 in financial support to assist the family of a 13-year-old Nigerian boy, Nnamdi Ohaeri Jr., fondly known as Deuce, who was found dead in his room on February 3.

A Murrieta resident, Jessica Anderson, created a GoFundMe account on behalf of the US-based Nigerian family, stating that the funds would be used to “honour” the deceased teenager.

The 13-year-old boy was reportedly found unresponsive in his room by his parents, prompting his mother to perform CPR while his father called 911 and rushed to a neighbour for help.

According to a report by the California-based television station, KTLA, on February 21, 2025, seen by TheNigerian Metro on Monday, the teenager was later pronounced dead, with an unconfirmed report that he had taken his own life.

However, his parents said it didn’t make sense, arguing that Deuce was always optimistic about the future and excited about what lay ahead.

The report indicated that his parents started investigating and asking questions, eventually uncovering that the teenager had learnt about a social media challenge where children attempted to make themselves pass out.

While the state police department had yet to release a statement regarding the cause of the incident, KTLA reported that the family believed Deuce died after taking part in a social media challenge where children attempted to make themselves pass out.

“I heard something where this young person tried to make themselves pass out, and I guess they came back from it,” Ohaeri Sr. told the TV station.

The family asserted that Deuce had no social media accounts and that his phone was equipped with strict parental controls, leading them to suspect he may have heard about the challenge from classmates at school.

 Meanwhile, in a message posted on the GoFundMe page, Anderson wrote, “When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.

“We want to honour the treasure that was the beloved Nnamdi Glenn Ohaeri Jr., ‘Deuce.” A vibrant, kind, loving, beautiful young man, a son, a brother, a grandson, a nephew, a friend, a teammate, a bandmate, a leader, and an athlete who had a passion and incredible talent for football, who meant so much to so many, and will be so very deeply missed.

“Should you want to contribute to the Ohaeri family, who have given of themselves so much to this community, as they navigate the toughest, most unimaginable loss, it would be so deeply appreciated.

“Please continue to keep the family in your thoughts and prayers as we respect their space and privacy.”

As of Monday, when this correspondent checked the GoFundMe account created to raise $100,000, approximately $75,800 had been donated to support the family.

Meanwhile, relatives and loved ones of the grieving family continue to share their condolences and contributions on the platform. Marrita Jeffrey, for example, described Deuce as “a gift to all, and in your home, he was your light that shined bright.”

Offering words of comfort, she assured the family, “I want you to know that when you can’t find faith, I will stand for you. When you can’t pray, I will pray for you. I love you all so much.”

Another mourner, Michael Vaez, expressed his sorrow, saying, *“My heart aches for this family. Perspective is so important to me. For all of us, the kids are the reason we do what we do. When we lose one, it breaks me. Words are not enough… Our donation (MVYB) is indicative of my (our) feelings about our community and the boys and girls we support. And I (we) do so with great respect, gratitude, and immense sorrow. Our best wishes to the family and prayers for all.”

Additionally, the Chike and Genine Amajoyi family, who contributed $1,250 to the fundraiser, shared their heartfelt message: “Genine, Alia, and I love you guys and continue to keep you in our prayers. We are here for you and always will be. I am so sorry for your loss…”

TheNigerian Metro learnt from the GoFundMe page on Monday that the family held a funeral for the teenager on February 14, 2025.

Francis Van-Lare, the father-in-law to United States-based Nigerian cardiologist, Dr Ikenna Erinne, has refuted claims that the late doctor took his own life due to financial strain from a $15,000 monthly child support ruling.

He made this disclosure on Monday as a clarification to the viral claim.

According to him, it was just $1,900 which the late doctor paid partially sometimes.

Van-Lare also dispelled the claim that Erinne was a peaceful and quiet guy while sharing screenshots of restraining orders from state of Maryland Court circuit.

The father of Erinne’s estranged partner wrote, “Liars everywhere. He killed himself to avoid paying $1,900.00 monthly which he pays partially sometimes. He was not asked to pay $15,000 a month as alleged. Dead beat dad!

“Go to the state of Maryland Court circuit and check numerous restraining orders. Quiet and peaceful guy my foot. Any more rubbish talk about my family, I will share more revelations.

“I am a bull dozer and will bull doze any lying blogger. Nobody should blame my daughter for the embarrassment he caused everyone.”

Recall that the tragic death of the 36-year-old cardiologist has sparked intense debate and widespread reactions from Nigerians both at home and abroad.

Francis Van-Lare has alleged that before his suicide, the deceased doctor held his daughter and grandchildren hostage at gunpoint for three hours.

He ultimately turned the weapon on himself when police arrived.

Van-Lare, a socialite and public figure, made the claim on his official Facebook account on Sunday.

This was in response to an earlier post by Facebook user Amanda Chisom, who clarified that Erinne’s ex-partner was not a white woman, as widely speculated, but Van-Lare’s daughter.

He further said, “While my daughter was involved in a custody battle, I only became aware around 3am Nigerian time last Monday that the deceased held her and her children at gunpoint for three hours after losing the case.

“The nanny managed to escape and called the police, and upon their arrival, he shot himself.”

He also revealed that Erinne was facing three counts of kidnapping with a deadly weapon, each carrying a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.

“I guess he decided to kill himself instead of facing the charges,” he added.

Despite the shocking nature of the incident, Van-Lare expressed sympathy for the late doctor’s family, clarifying that his daughter was not responsible for his decision to take his own life.

“While I sympathise with his family, my daughter is not to blame for his death. And I thank God it did not escalate to where he shot my daughter, grandchildren, and himself,” the father-in-law stated.

A 36-year-old United States-based Nigerian cardiologist, Ikenna Erinne, has reportedly committed suicide after losing a child support case to his yet-to-be-identified ex-wife.

The incident was said to have occurred on Sunday, January 26.

It was gathered that the Anambra-state-born late doctor had a prolonged divorce battle with his estranged wife, including the custody of their children.

He, however, lost the case after a US court ruled in favour of his ex-wife and ordered him to pay a monthly child support of $15,000.

Confirming the incident in a post shared on X.com, a Nigerian-American, Clayton Udo, said the court’s verdict took a severe financial toll on him, leading to his tragic death.

He wrote, “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.”

Udo, who claimed to be an expert in psychological and mental abuse, revealed that the deceased had spent thousands of dollars in legal fees before the court’s verdict turned out in favour of his ex-wife.

He further explained that the late doctor lost his license as a cardiologist to the case, adding 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.

Another member of the Nigerian community in the United States, Obim Onujiogu, also confirmed Erinne’s death in a post on Facebook.

Onujiogu described him as a compassionate healer and devoted family man.

He, however, disclosed that his funeral would be held Monday in Maryland, the United States.

Onujiogu wrote, “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.

“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.”

A US-based Nigerian cardiologist, Dr Ikenna Erinne, reportedly held his estranged partner and their children hostage at gunpoint for three hours before taking his own life when police arrived, his father-in-law, Francis Van-Lare, has alleged.

The tragic death of the 36-year-old cardiologist has sparked intense debate and widespread reactions from Nigerians both at home and abroad.

Initially believed to have taken his own life due to financial strain from a $15,000 monthly child support ruling, new revelations suggest that his final moments were far more disturbing.

Francis Van-Lare, the father of Erinne’s estranged partner, has alleged that before his suicide, the deceased doctor held his daughter and grandchildren hostage at gunpoint for three hours.

He ultimately turned the weapon on himself when police arrived.

Van-Lare, a socialite and public figure, made the claim on his official Facebook account on Sunday.

This was in response to an earlier post by Facebook user Amanda Chisom, who clarified that Erinne’s ex-partner was not a white woman, as widely speculated, but Van-Lare’s daughter.

Father-in-Law’s Allegation

In the Facebook comment addressing speculations surrounding his daughter’s involvement, Van-Lare provided chilling details of the incident.

He wrote, “While my daughter was involved in a custody battle, I only became aware around 3am Nigerian time last Monday that the deceased held her and her children at gunpoint for three hours after losing the case.

“The nanny managed to escape and called the police, and upon their arrival, he shot himself.”

He further revealed that Erinne was facing three counts of kidnapping with a deadly weapon, each carrying a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.

“I guess he decided to kill himself instead of facing the charges,” he added.

Despite the shocking nature of the incident, Van-Lare expressed sympathy for the late doctor’s family, clarifying that his daughter was not responsible for his decision to take his own life.

“While I sympathise with his family, my daughter is not to blame for his death. And I thank God it did not escalate to where he shot my daughter, grandchildren, and himself,” the father-in-law stated.

Concluding his statement, he acknowledged the deep trauma the situation has caused for all involved:

He concluded, “May his soul rest in peace. Everyone is a loser here. It is traumatising for all, including me. No winners here.”

“He Did Not Marry a White Woman”

Amid the tragedy, misinformation spread rapidly, with many Nigerians believing Erinne’s ex-partner was a white woman who had used the legal system against him.

However, Chisom debunked these claims, revealing that the mother of his children is actually an Igbo woman—the daughter of Francis Van-Lare.

She wrote, “Ikenna did not marry a white woman. He had children with an Igbo woman, Francis Van-Lare’s daughter. However, they were never married. He called off the wedding, largely due to family concerns.”

She described Erinne as a quiet and reserved man, noting that his personality may have contributed to how he handled his struggles.

“Ikenna was always too quiet for his own good. If you pushed him, he would simply walk away. He was unassuming and a true gift to his generation,” she continued.

Her revelation shifted the conversation, igniting fresh discussions on marriage, family structures, and mental health struggles among Nigerian men abroad.

Lessons on Marriage, Due Diligence

Chisom also used the tragedy to highlight the importance of evaluating a partner’s background before commitment.

She cautioned against making decisions based solely on emotions, emphasising the lasting impact of family values and upbringing.

Chisom further stated, “This tragedy serves as a harsh reminder of why it is essential to ask questions and do thorough background checks before marriage.

“It is not enough to be carried away by beauty, intelligence, or temporary affection. A person’s upbringing, family values, and personal history play a significant role in shaping their character.”

She further warned against marrying individuals from dysfunctional homes, arguing that unresolved trauma often affects their ability to sustain relationships.

“If possible, avoid marrying someone from a broken home. The foundation of a person’s family often influences their ability to build and sustain their own. If a home was built on chaos, unresolved trauma, or a lack of unity, chances are those patterns will repeat,” her post stated.

Her remarks sparked a fierce debate online, with some agreeing while others criticised her for shifting blame instead of addressing systemic flaws in custody laws and the pressures men face in divorce cases.

No Winners, Only Loss

What started as a legal custody battle has ended in an irreversible tragedy, leaving families broken and social media users divided over who is to blame.

For some, Erinne’s death serves as a painful reminder of the mental health struggles that many men, particularly those in the diaspora, silently endure.

For others, it reignites discussions about the fairness of family courts and the heavy financial burden placed on fathers in custody cases, TheNigerian Online observed from the series of comments on all the posts.

Yet, as Van-Lare himself put it, no one truly wins in such a tragic situation.

As he prayed for the soul of the departed doctor, he concluded, “Everyone is a loser here… No winners.”

“May Dr Ikenna Erinne rest in peace.”