Adichie Accuses Lagos Hospital of Delaying Probe Into Son’s Death as Inquest Faces Legal Battle
Concerns over child safety and accountability in healthcare have intensified after Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, accused Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital of delaying investigations into the death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi Esege.
The development follows the adjournment of the coroner’s inquest into the child’s death, as the hospital challenges the court’s jurisdiction to continue the inquiry.
The case has raised broader questions about the protection of children receiving medical care and the importance of transparent investigations when a child dies under healthcare supervision.
Adichie alleged that the hospital initially acknowledged errors linked to her son’s treatment but later changed its position. She claimed the medical records and reports requested by the family were not fully provided.
She also alleged that the hospital’s Medical Director, Dr Tosin Majekodunmi, informed her that the anesthesiologist administered “too much propofol” during the procedure.
The author questioned the cause of death stated on the child’s certificate, arguing that it did not reflect available medical evidence.
From a safeguarding perspective, experts stress that independent reviews of child deaths in medical settings are essential. Such inquiries help establish facts, improve healthcare standards and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The family’s legal team has maintained that the inquest remains necessary to determine what happened and ensure accountability.
Meanwhile, the hospital has not released a public response to the allegations. An official who responded to inquiries directed requests to the hospital management.
The matter remains before the court, with stakeholders awaiting a decision that will determine the next stage of the investigation.
