The Lagos State Government has directed a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at a private hospital in Lagos.
The toddler, one of Adichie’s twin sons, reportedly passed away after a brief illness. Adichie alleged in a statement on Saturday that her son’s death was caused by “criminal negligence,” describing the anaesthesiologist involved as “criminally negligent, fatally casual, and careless with the precious life of a child.” She explained that Nkanu initially displayed mild cold symptoms which rapidly worsened into a severe infection.
In response, Euracare Multispecialist Hospital, where Nkanu was treated, confirmed it had launched an internal review of the incident. The hospital expressed condolences to Adichie and her family, describing the loss as “profound and unimaginable,” while maintaining that some circulating reports contained inaccuracies.
Euracare emphasized its reputation as a centre for complex medical care with internationally trained staff. It explained that Nkanu had been critically ill and referred to the facility for specialized diagnostic procedures after prior treatment at two other paediatric centres. The hospital noted that its team provided care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted standards, collaborating with external medical teams recommended by the family. However, the child died less than 24 hours after arriving at the hospital.
Reacting to the tragedy, the Lagos State Government said it had received formal notification of the incident on January 6 and expressed condolences to Adichie and her family. In a statement signed by Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Health, the government stressed its commitment to safeguarding human life and maintaining zero tolerance for medical negligence.
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“The Lagos State Government places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the state,” the statement read.
The governor has instructed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to conduct a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the incident. The agency has already visited the facility and begun reviewing all relevant reports and allegations.
“In line with this commitment, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency to immediately commence a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with a view to unraveling the immediate and remote causes of the death. HEFAMAA has since commenced investigation and has visited the facility involved as part of the ongoing inquiry. The agency will conduct a comprehensive review of all allegations and reports relating to the incident,” the statement added.
HEFAMAA will collaborate with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure a credible inquiry. The investigation will examine adherence to clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the roles of all parties involved. The findings will be made public upon conclusion.
The government assured that any individual or institution found guilty of negligence or professional misconduct will face sanctions in accordance with existing laws and urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation during the investigation.
“The state government reiterates its commitment to safeguarding the health, safety and rights of all residents and strengthening oversight of medical practice in the state,” the statement concluded.