April 14 set for coroner’s Inquest into death of Adichie’s 21-month-old son

The Lagos State Judiciary has set April 14, 2026, for a coroner’s inquest into the death of Nkanu, the 21-month-old son of famous Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

Nkanu passed away on January 7, 2026, following complications from several medical procedures. After his death, the family sent a legal notice to the hospital, claiming medical negligence and professional misconduct played a role.

Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji of the Yaba Magistrate Court fixed the inquest date after lawyers for all sides formally appeared in court.

Kemi Pinheiro represents the Adichie family, while Adebola Rahman represents the Lagos State Attorney-General. Lawyers for Atlantis Hospital and Euracare were also present.

The magistrate explained that the inquest was requested by the Attorney-General because the Lagos State Government wants to ensure the death is fully investigated. “The Lagos State Government is also bereaved; that is why the Attorney-General has taken this step. It is not just the family of the deceased that is affected,” she said.

The court ordered all parties to exchange their witness statements before the hearing. The main goal is to determine the exact cause of Nkanu’s death. The inquest will start with the presentation of the autopsy findings.

The Adichie family plans to present evidence suggesting serious medical negligence, including possible overdose, wrong prescriptions, improper administration of propofol, and misdiagnosis.

They are expected to call five independent medical experts and the child’s father, who is a medical doctor.

Euracare will present its case first, followed by the Adichie family, and then Atlantis Hospital. The proceedings formally begin on April 14, 2026.