Francis Van-Lare, the father-in-law of the late US-based Nigerian doctor, Dr. Ikenna Erinne, has shed light on the reasons behind the significant child support order imposed on the doctor, which was initially met with backlash. In a detailed Facebook post, Van-Lare took the opportunity to dismiss various allegations against his late son-in-law, clarifying the circumstances surrounding the $15,000 child support payment that had been a source of controversy.
This statement from Van-Lare comes amid the ongoing public outcry surrounding the Van-Lare family, with many speculating that the large child support sum was a contributing factor to Dr. Ikenna Erinne’s tragic suicide. Van-Lare, however, sought to clear the air, especially regarding the accusations of license revocation that had surfaced prior to the doctor's death. He explained that Dr. Erinne's professional license had never been revoked in any state, contrary to some claims that circulated widely. “Dr. Ikenna Erinne’s license was never revoked. He had active licenses in Illinois, New York, Virginia, and Maryland. One state cannot revoke all licenses at once, and none were revoked,” Van-Lare stated, hoping to clear up any confusion surrounding his son-in-law's professional standing.
Addressing the matter of the substantial child support payment, Van-Lare provided a detailed explanation of why the amount was set at such a high level. He explained that the primary reason for the large sum was the special care required for Dr. Erinne's son, who has a physical disability. According to Van-Lare, the child needed special care from various medical facilities, in addition to attending a specialized school for children with special needs, which resulted in significant financial expenses. “The child support was set that much because he has a physically challenged son needing special care from different medical facilities, plus attending a special needs school that costs money. Courts consider the income of both parents before making decisions,” Van-Lare clarified, emphasizing that the court's decision was based on the child’s needs and the financial capacity of both parents.
Van-Lare expressed his personal disappointment and frustration with Dr. Erinne’s actions, particularly his decision to end his own life. He made it clear that Dr. Erinne was not a victim in the situation and failed both his son and daughter, who are now left without their father. "He is not a victim but failed his son and daughter, who are now left without their father. I just thank God he did not shoot my daughter and grandchildren in his madness,” Van-Lare remarked, lamenting the family tragedy. He also questioned the reasoning behind Dr. Erinne’s suicide, stating, “Which sane person takes his own life over money he is supposed to use to support his children? He was asked to pay child support, not alimony or spousal support, as my daughter is self-sufficient.” Van-Lare expressed disbelief over the fact that Dr. Erinne’s mental state had led to such a drastic decision. Despite his criticism, however, Van-Lare extended his condolences to Dr. Erinne's family, saying, “May his soul rest in peace regardless. My family will raise the children without him.”
