Esther Salifu
Francis Van-Lare, the father-in-law of late US-based Nigerian cardiologist, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, has disputed claims that Erinne took his own life due to financial strain from a $15,000 monthly child support ruling. Van-Lare clarified that the actual amount was $1,900, which Erinne sometimes paid partially.
Van-Lare also refuted the claim that Erinne was a peaceful and quiet individual, sharing screenshots of restraining orders from the Maryland Court Circuit. He described Erinne as a “deadbeat dad” and warned against spreading false information about his family.
“I guess he decided to kill himself instead of facing the charges,” he added.
Additionally, Van-Lare alleged that Erinne had held his daughter and grandchildren hostage at gunpoint for three hours before taking his own life. He stated that Erinne was facing three counts of kidnapping with a deadly weapon, each carrying a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
Van-Lare expressed sympathy for Erinne’s family but emphasized that his daughter was not responsible for Erinne’s decision to take his own life. He thanked God that the situation did not escalate further, potentially harming his daughter, grandchildren, and himself.
“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 stated
