Lagos to Probe Alleged Medical Negligence in Death of Chimamanda’s Son

The Lagos government has ordered an investigation into the alleged medical negligence that led to the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of Chimamanda Adichie.

Nkanu, one of the Adichie’s twin sons, died on Wednesday following an emergency during a medical procedure at Euracare, a hospital in Lagos.

The author had accused Euracare Hospital of negligence, alleging that her son’s death was the result of “criminal negligence” by the attending anaesthesiologist.

Adichie recounted that the toddler initially appeared to have a cold before his condition rapidly deteriorated into a severe infection.

She claimed the anaesthesiologist in charge was “criminally negligent, fatally casual, and careless with the precious life of a child”. In a statement on Saturday, Kemi Ogunyemi, special adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on health, said the state government has commenced a probe into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“Lagos state government extends its heartfelt condolences and assures the family of its concern and commitment to justice,” the statement reads.

Ogunyemi said the state maintains “zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct” in any health facility operating within Lagos.

She disclosed that SanwoOlu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to immediately commence a “thorough, independent, and transparent investigation” into the incident to determine both the immediate and remote causes of death.

According to the statement, HEFAMAA has already visited the facility involved and begun a com- prehensive review of all allegations and reports relating to the case.

The agency will also collabo- rate with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure a credible and professional investigation.

“The investigation will examine the allegations raised, including compliance with established clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved,” Ogunyemi said.

“Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability.