The Lagos State Government has ordered an in-depth investigation into the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at a private hospital in Lagos.
The toddler, one of Adichie’s twin sons, reportedly died after a short illness.
In a statement released on Saturday, Adichie alleged that her son’s death was due to “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 had mild cold symptoms, which quickly developed into a severe infection.
Euracare Multispecialist Hospital, where Nkanu was treated, confirmed it had begun an internal review of the incident. The hospital expressed sympathy to Adichie and her family, calling the loss “profound and unimaginable,” while insisting that some circulating reports contained inaccuracies.
The hospital highlighted its reputation as a centre for complex medical care staffed by internationally trained professionals. It said the child, who was critically ill, had been referred for specialized diagnostic procedures after treatment at two other paediatric facilities. Euracare added that care was provided according to established clinical protocols and international standards, working alongside external medical teams recommended by the family. Despite these efforts, the child died less than 24 hours after arriving at the hospital.
In response to the tragedy, the Lagos State Government said it had been formally notified of the incident on January 6. In a statement signed by Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Health, the government extended condolences to Adichie and her family, emphasizing its zero tolerance for medical negligence.
“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.
Governor Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to conduct a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the incident. HEFAMAA 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 an 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.
The agency will collaborate with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and other regulatory bodies to ensure a credible investigation. The inquiry will assess compliance with clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the responsibilities of all parties involved. The findings will be released to the public once the investigation is concluded.
The government assured that any individual or facility found culpable of negligence or professional misconduct will face sanctions under the law. It also urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation while the probe continues.
“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.
