Proceedings in the ongoing inquest into the death of Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, were on Tuesday suspended by a Lagos coroner’s court sitting at Igbosere.
The presiding coroner, Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji, ordered a pause in the hearing pending further directives from the Chief Coroner, Justice Mojisola Dada.
The development followed an announcement by counsel representing the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, who told the court that the state Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro, had directed that the inquest be put on hold. According to the counsel, the suspension would remain until after a meeting involving all parties scheduled for May 12, 2026.
However, Magistrate Adetunji openly questioned the legality of the directive, emphasizing the independence of the judiciary.
“I find it very appalling that the Attorney-General would take such steps without informing the court,” she said. “The Attorney-General does not have the authority, under the principle of separation of powers, to direct the court.”
Legal counsel to the deceased child’s parents, Adeyinka Aderemi (SAN), informed the court that parties had initially been invited to a meeting slated for the same day but were only notified late on Monday that it had been rescheduled.
“The father of the deceased is present in court and prepared to testify,” Aderemi stated, expressing concern over the sudden change.
The inquest, which commenced on February 25, is investigating the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. Nkanu was reportedly referred from Atlantis Paediatric Hospital to Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital for further medical procedures.
He died in the early hours of January 7, 2026, shortly after undergoing treatment, while arrangements were underway to transfer him abroad to Johns Hopkins Hospital for advanced care.
The suspension of proceedings has raised questions about the interplay between the executive and judicial arms in the handling of sensitive cases, as stakeholders await further direction from the Chief Coroner.
