The Lagos State Government has directed an immediate investigation into allegations of medical negligence surrounding the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of celebrated author, Chimamanda Adichie.
The toddler, one of Adichie’s twin sons, died on January 6 at a private healthcare facility in Lagos following what the author described as a brief illness.
In a statement released on Saturday, Adichie accused the anaesthesiologist who attended to her son of “criminal negligence,” alleging that the medical professional was “fatally casual and careless with the precious life of a child.”
The novelist explained that her son initially presented symptoms consistent with a mild cold, which subsequently progressed into a severe infection.
Euracare Hospital, identified as the facility where the child received treatment, has launched an internal inquiry into the incident.
In its response issued on Saturday, the hospital extended condolences to the grieving family, describing the loss as “profound and unimaginable.”
The facility, however, noted that certain accounts of the incident contained factual inaccuracies.
According to the hospital’s statement, the child arrived at its facility in critical condition, having been referred from two other paediatric centres for specialised diagnostic procedures.
The hospital maintained that its medical personnel administered immediate care in accordance with established clinical protocols and international medical standards, collaborating with external medical teams as requested by the family.
The facility disclosed that the child died less than 24 hours after admission.
Reacting to the development, the state government, through the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, described the report as “deeply distressing.”
“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,” Dr Ogunyemi stated.
Governor Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency to conduct a comprehensive, independent and transparent investigation into the matter.
HEFAMAA officials have commenced the probe and visited the hospital as part of preliminary inquiries.
The agency is expected to examine compliance with clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the responsibilities of all parties involved in the child’s treatment.
The investigation will be carried out in collaboration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and other regulatory bodies to ensure credibility and professionalism.
The state government has pledged to make the findings public upon conclusion of the investigation, emphasising its commitment to transparency and accountability.
“Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct or regulatory violations would be sanctioned in accordance with existing laws,” the statement assured.
The government have appealed to the public to exercise restraint and avoid speculation while investigations are ongoing.
The government reiterated its dedication to protecting the health, safety and rights of residents, while strengthening regulatory oversight of medical practice across the state.