The family of Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has accused a Lagos hospital of negligence in connection with the death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi.
The toddler passed away on Wednesday after a brief illness, leaving the family “devastated,” according to statements from the acclaimed novelist and postcolonial feminist.
The family alleges that several errors at Euracare Hospital contributed to Nkanu’s death, including denial of oxygen and excessive sedation, which they claim led to a heart attack.
Euracare Hospital expressed its condolences over the loss but denied any wrongdoing, insisting that the care provided was in line with international medical standards. The hospital added that Nkanu had arrived “critically ill” and confirmed that an investigation into his death is ongoing.
Adichie’s sister-in-law, Dr Anthea Nwandu, publicly accused the hospital of multiple failures in an interview with Arise TV on Saturday. She stated that the medical director admitted her son had been over-sedated, resulting in a heart attack. Dr Nwandu also claimed that Nkanu was left unattended, denied oxygen, and transported improperly, which may have caused brain injury.
Similar concerns were revealed in a private message from Adichie that was later leaked online. Her spokesperson, Omawumi Ogbe, told the BBC that the message had been intended only for “a close circle of family and friends” but emphasized that it highlights the serious clinical failures the family is confronting. “We hope the focus remains on the alleged medical negligence, while truth and accountability are pursued,” Ogbe said.
Nkanu was one of twin boys born via surrogate in 2024; Adichie had her first child, a daughter, in 2016.
Euracare Hospital responded by acknowledging the family’s “profound and unimaginable loss” but said that circulating reports contained “inaccuracies.” The hospital stated that Nkanu, who had received treatment at two other paediatric centres before referral, was immediately attended to according to established clinical protocols and international medical standards, including sedation. Despite coordinated efforts with external medical teams, the boy passed away less than 24 hours after admission. The hospital confirmed that a detailed investigation is ongoing and pledged to engage transparently with all regulatory processes.
President Bola Tinubu and other public figures have expressed condolences. Experts note that Nigeria’s healthcare system is currently under strain, with severe doctor shortages leaving medical personnel overworked and juggling responsibilities across public and private hospitals.
In response to the allegations, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, said the state “places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct.” She confirmed that an independent, thorough investigation has begun and warned that anyone found culpable would face the full force of the law. Dr Ogunyemi also urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation is ongoing.
