Presiding Magistrate Adjourns Inquest into Chimamanda Adichie’s Son’s Death to April 14, Sparks Wider Child Protection Accountability Debate
Presiding Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji has adjourned the inquest into the death of 21 month old Nkanu Nnamdi Esege, son of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr Ivara Esege, to April 14, 2026, directing all parties to file their witness statements ahead of the formal hearing at the Yaba Magistrate Court.
The inquest is not just a routine proceeding. It is a necessary legal step to establish the facts, determine responsibility and reinforce child protection standards in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The Attorney General of Lagos State requested the inquest through the Chief Coroner, underscoring that the state considers the matter one of public concern, not just a private tragedy. Under coroner law, an inquest is required where a death appears sudden, unnatural or occurs in circumstances that demand public scrutiny. The parents maintain that their son’s death followed medical intervention and was therefore not natural.
The family, represented by senior counsel, has indicated it will present five independent medical experts, including specialists in anaesthesia, paediatrics and intensive care. They allege cumulative dosing of propofol, inadequate monitoring, improper airway protection and failures in emergency response during procedures conducted at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital after referral from Atlantis Hospital. The court has also directed preservation of physical and electronic evidence, including CCTV footage and medical logs. Euracare is to open its defence, followed by the family and then Atlantis.
This process matters because accountability strengthens systems. The Child Rights Act 2003 guarantees every child the right to survival and to the highest attainable standard of health. The Constitution protects the right to life. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child requires states to ensure appropriate medical care and safeguard children from harm.
Without judicial scrutiny, such legal protections risk becoming symbolic. A transparent inquest clarifies what happened, identifies gaps and compels institutions, regulators and government agencies to prioritise child safety above revenue, reputation or expediency. Court oversight sends a clear message that safeguarding children is a legal duty shared by public authorities, private hospitals and medical professionals alike.
