Investigation into death of Chimamanda Adichie’s son begins

The Lagos State judiciary will on April 14 commence a coroner’s inquest into the death of Nkanu, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed author Chimamanda Adichie.

Nkanu passed away on January 7, 2026, following complications during a series of preparatory medical procedures. The family subsequently served a legal notice to the hospital, alleging that medical negligence and professional misconduct contributed to the child’s death.

Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji, presiding over the matter at Yaba Magistrate Court, set the inquest date after hearing the introductions of all legal representatives.

The Adichie family is represented by Kemi Pinheiro, the Lagos State Attorney-General by Adebola Rahman, while Atlantis Hospital and Euracare had their respective legal teams present.

Adetunji noted that the inquest is being conducted at the request of the Attorney-General, adding that the Lagos State Government, like the family, is affected by the loss.

“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 magistrate directed all parties to submit their witness statements ahead of the hearing, emphasising that the primary objective is to determine the cause of death. The inquest will begin with an autopsy.

Chimamanda’s lawyer urged the court to allow the family to present evidence of alleged gross medical negligence, possible overdose, wrongful prescription, improper administration of propofol, and wrongful diagnosis. Five independent medical experts, along with the child’s father, who is also a doctor, are expected to testify.

The magistrate ruled that Euracare will present its account first, followed by the Adichie family, and then Atlantis Hospital.

The hearing was adjourned to April 14 for the formal commencement of the inquest.