When Nigerian couple Angela and Ben Ihegboro welcomed their third child, Nmachi, in 2010, they were in for a surprise. Despite both parents being black, Nmachi was born with blonde hair, blue eyes, and light skin. The unexpected arrival left the couple stunned and searching for answers.
Angela described Nmachi as a “miracle baby,” and Ben was quick to rule out any speculation about the child’s parentage. “Of course, she is mine,” he said. “My wife is true to me.” The couple’s two older children are also black, making Nmachi’s arrival even more astonishing.
Genetics experts offered three possible explanations for Nmachi’s unusual appearance. One theory suggested that Nmachi had a unique gene mutation that could be passed down to her own children. Another theory proposed that Angela and Ben might be carrying dormant white genes from their ancestors, which had lain dormant for generations.
A black, Nigerian couple Ben and Angela Ihegboro living in the U.K. gave birth to a white, blonde, blue-eyed baby that they call “miracle baby.” pic.twitter.com/dRQTYKE9ZT
— THE G•O•A•T (@OfficialUdiBoy) May 21, 2020
The third possibility was that Nmachi might have a mutated variant of albinism. However, Ben was skeptical about this theory, stating that Nmachi didn’t resemble the albino children he had seen in Nigeria or in books.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Nmachi’s appearance, one thing is clear: she is loved and cherished by her family. As Ben said, “She is beautiful, a miracle baby.” The Ihegboro family’s story is a heartwarming reminder that every child is a unique and precious gift, regardless of their physical appearance.
Nmachi’s arrival may have been unexpected, but it has brought immense joy to her family. As they navigate the complexities of genetics and ancestry, they remain grateful for the love and happiness that Nmachi brings to their lives.
