The Lagos State Government has launched an independent investigation into allegations of medical negligence surrounding the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of celebrated Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
The toddler reportedly died on January 6, 2026, after receiving treatment at a private hospital in Lagos. The incident became public after Adichie, in an emotional statement, accused the attending anaesthesiologist of what she described as “criminal negligence,” alleging that her son’s condition was mishandled.
According to Adichie, her child initially showed symptoms of a mild cold but deteriorated rapidly into a severe infection, a development she believes was poorly managed.
Reacting to the allegation, the Lagos State Government said it had been formally notified of what it described as a “deeply distressing” incident.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, the government extended its condolences to the family and announced that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had ordered an immediate investigation.
“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 said.
The government disclosed that the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency has been directed to conduct a “thorough, independent and transparent investigation” to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the child’s death.
“In line with this directive, HEFAMAA has commenced investigations and has visited the facility involved as part of the ongoing inquiry,” Ogunyemi stated, adding that the agency would review all allegations and medical reports connected to the case.
She noted that the investigation would be carried out in collaboration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure professional credibility.
“The investigation will examine compliance with established clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the hospital where the child was treated, Euracare Hospital, confirmed that it had opened an internal probe into the incident.
In a statement, the hospital expressed sympathy to Adichie and her family, describing the loss as “profound and unimaginable,” while insisting that some reports circulating about the case contained inaccuracies.
Euracare said the child was critically ill on arrival and had been referred to its facility for specific diagnostic procedures after receiving treatment at two other paediatric centres.
“Our medical team provided immediate care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards, working collaboratively with external medical teams as recommended by the family,” the hospital said.
It added that despite efforts by the medical team, the child died less than 24 hours after admission.
The Lagos State Government assured residents that the outcome of the investigation would be made public and that anyone found culpable would face sanctions in line with existing laws.
“Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability,” the statement said.
The government also urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation while investigations are ongoing, reiterating its commitment to safeguarding patient safety and strengthening oversight of healthcare practices in the state.
