Suzette Chibuogu Van-Lare Breaks Silence Following the Tragic Passing of Dr. Ikenna Erinne
Suzette Chibuogu Van-Lare, the woman whose children’s father, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, tragically ended his life following a custody dispute, has spoken out for the first time.
Having remained silent for days, Suzette’s father, businessman Francis Van-Lare, had previously addressed the public to counter misinformation circulating online. Now, Suzette has released a statement sharing her side of the story and detailing the harrowing experience she and her children endured.
Taking to Instagram, Suzette, a doctor of medical science, wrote:
“There are a lot of lies swirling around the internet right now, and it’s impossible to address them all. For years, I have remained silent as I navigated a journey of character development, resilience, and obedience to God. On January 26, my children and I had a near-death experience, and we are now on a journey of healing.
“Those who truly know me are aware that I have always taken care of my kids 100% of the time since their births. They also know that their father has not lived in the same state as us for most of their lives. My son is permanently disabled and has been undergoing therapy 40 hours a week since he was one year old. I have always been the primary financial provider for my children. ALWAYS.
“My children and I will overcome this. The worst night of our lives—when we begged to live for three hours—has been twisted to make us look like villains.
“I have received dozens of text messages and calls threatening my life and my children’s lives. This must stop. I have videos, pictures, and police documentation of multiple incidents. I do not want to take it further, but this has to stop.
“Nobody knows someone like their partner does. I respect the experiences and memories others had of him, and I do not seek to tarnish them. But I know the truth. Those who know me know the truth. What others think of me is not my concern.
“Nigerians love gossip, but my children and I are real people simply trying to move forward safely. We are already living with the consequences of years of anger and ignorance. Let’s move forward with love.
“#domesticviolence”
This heartbreaking revelation follows the tragic suicide of Dr. Ikenna Erinne, a 36-year-old cardiologist from Anambra State, who was practicing in the United States. He reportedly took his own life after a dispute over child custody.
Some online sources claimed that he had been ordered by the court to pay $15,000 in monthly child support. However, Suzette’s father, Francis Van-Lare, refuted this claim, providing legal documents indicating that the mandated amount was $1,900.
Additionally, Van-Lare alleged that Dr. Erinne had held Suzette and her children at gunpoint before taking his own life when police arrived, possibly to avoid facing legal consequences that could have led to a lengthy prison sentence.
As the situation continues to unfold, Suzette remains focused on healing and ensuring her children’s safety in the wake of this tragedy.