The Family of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Accuses Lagos Hospital of Negligence Following Son’s Death
The family of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has publicly accused a Lagos hospital of negligence after the tragic death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi. The family claims a series of medical failures at Euracare Hospital contributed to the child’s untimely passing, leaving them devastated.
Why It Matters
This incident raises critical questions about the quality of healthcare in Nigeria, especially given the country’s ongoing struggles with medical staffing and infrastructure. Not only does it highlight the personal tragedy faced by a high-profile family, but it also underscores broader systemic issues that impact many families across the nation.
Key Developments
- Nkanu Nnamdi died at Euracare Hospital after a brief illness.
- The family alleges he was denied oxygen and received excessive sedation, leading to a heart attack.
- The hospital denies any wrongdoing, asserting that care was administered per international standards.
- A thorough investigation into the circumstances of the child’s death is underway.
- Lagos state officials have pledged accountability for any negligence found during the investigation.
Full Report
Allegations of Medical Negligence
Following Nkanu’s death on Wednesday, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s family contends that multiple failures at Euracare Hospital contributed to their loss. In an interview broadcast on Arise TV, Dr. Anthea Nwandu, Adichie’s sister-in-law, claimed that the hospital’s medical director had admitted to Adichie that her son “had received too much sedation,” which ultimately caused a heart attack. Dr. Nwandu also alleged that Nkanu was left unattended and was denied essential oxygen during critical moments.
Hospital’s Response
In response to these serious allegations, Euracare Hospital extended its deepest sympathies to the family but firmly denied any lapses in care. The hospital stated that Nkanu had been critically ill upon his arrival, and insisted that medical staff had been adhering to established protocols and international medical standards. The hospital confirmed that a detailed investigation into the events leading to the death is currently being conducted.
Leaked Message From Adichie
A private message from Adichie, detailing her family’s experience and concerns about Nkanu’s care, was leaked online, further highlighting the family’s grievances. Adichie’s spokeswoman, Omawumi Ogbe, emphasized that the message was meant for a limited audience and expressed sadness over its public dissemination. However, Ogbe asserted that the contents of the message underscore significant medical failures that the family is now grappling with.
Government Officials Respond
Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, speaking on behalf of the Lagos state Ministry of Health, stated that the government places immense value on human life and has zero tolerance for medical negligence. She confirmed that the health watchdog has started an independent investigation into the matter, ensuring accountability will be meted out to any entities found negligent.
Context & Previous Events
Nkanu was one of the twin boys born to Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, through surrogacy in 2024. The incident has occurred against a backdrop of ongoing issues within Nigeria’s healthcare system, where there is a significant shortage of medical staff. Many doctors are forced to work long hours across multiple facilities, impacting the quality of care provided to patients.
