The Coroner’s Court in Lagos has scheduled an inquest into the death of 21-month-old Nkanu Nnamdi Esege, son of renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, for April 14, 2026. It is alleged that the child died on January 7, 2026, after undergoing medical tests at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos.
Nkanu was initially admitted to Atlantis Hospital for a worsening illness, and was referred to Euracare for pre-flight diagnostic procedures ahead of a planned transfer to Johns Hopkins Hospital in the United States. However, he died shortly after the diagnostic procedures, prompting his parents to allege medical negligence and professional misconduct
The family’s Lawyer, Prof. Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, stated that they would present evidence alleging gross medical negligence, including possible overdose, wrongful prescription, improper administration of propofol, and misdiagnosis. They plan to call five independent medical experts, including an anaesthesiologist and the child’s father, Dr Ivara Esege, a medical doctor
Euracare Hospital has denied any wrongdoing, stating that Nkanu was critically ill upon arrival and tests were carried out following established protocols and international standards. The hospital expressed sympathy over the child’s death, but refuted allegations of negligence
Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji, who adjourned the matter, stated that the court’s primary objective is to determine the cause of death. She directed all parties to file their witness statements before the next adjourned date, and cautioned them to approach the proceedings carefully .
The Lagos State Government has also expressed interest in the case, with the Attorney-General requesting an inquest. Magistrate Adetunji noted that the State Government considers itself bereaved, and is seeking a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding Nkanu’s death
The inquest is expected to reveal more about the circumstances surrounding Nkanu’s death, and determine whether medical negligence played a role .
