Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Adichie and her husband, Ivara Esege, have served a legal notice on Euracare Hospital in Lagos following the death of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi.
The family alleges that Nkanu’s death was caused by medical negligence at the private facility. The legal notice, dated January 10 and issued by the law firm of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Kemi Pinheiro, accuses the hospital, its anaesthesiologist, and attending staff of failing in their duty of care during a sequence of medical procedures.
The toddler passed away in the early hours of January 7 after being moved for an echocardiogram, brain MRI, lumbar puncture, and central line insertion—procedures intended to prepare him for medical evacuation to the United States. The notice claims that while sedated with propofol, Nkanu experienced severe complications during transfers within the hospital.
The parents allege that inadequate monitoring, incorrect dosing, lack of supplemental oxygen, insufficient staffing, and delayed responses contributed to the tragedy. Concerns were also raised over informed consent and the availability of resuscitation equipment.
The legal notice demands certified copies of all medical records related to Nkanu’s care within seven days and warns that destruction of evidence could result in legal action.
Euracare Hospital has yet to respond publicly to the notice but previously denied any wrongdoing, stating that the child was critically ill on referral and that all care provided followed established clinical protocols and international standards. The hospital confirmed it had launched an internal review and expressed condolences to the family.
Lagos government steps in
The Lagos State Government has initiated an investigation into Nkanu’s death. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Health, stated that the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) had visited the hospital to review all reports and allegations. The agency will collaborate with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other relevant bodies to ensure a transparent and credible inquiry.
“The investigation will examine compliance with clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the roles of all parties involved. Findings will be made public,” Ogunyemi said.
Nigerians share similar experiences
The case has reignited public conversations about medical errors in Nigeria. Former BPSR Director-General Joe Abah shared on X how he was pressured by a private Abuja hospital to undergo immediate surgery, which he later discovered was unnecessary after obtaining second and third opinions abroad.
Other Nigerians recounted comparable experiences, including misdiagnoses and undue pressure to proceed with medical procedures. Some highlighted concerns about post-anaesthesia care for children, echoing worries raised by the Adichie family.
Medical negligence concerns
Chimamanda Adichie has described her son’s death as preventable, citing critical failures during routine procedures that led to seizures, cardiac arrest, and ultimately, Nkanu’s death despite resuscitation efforts.
Reports indicate that medical errors remain a serious issue in Nigeria, with studies showing that roughly one in three patients suffer additional injuries as a result of treatment. Experts have called for systemic reforms, including better training, mentorship programs, and formal error-reporting systems to improve patient safety.
The MDCN is responsible for investigating medical negligence cases and has previously sanctioned dozens of practitioners found guilty of misconduct.
