Lagos Orders Investigation Into Death of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Toddler Son

The Lagos State Government has ordered an independent investigation into the death of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi, following allegations of medical negligence at a private hospital. The probe, led by HEFAMAA in collaboration with relevant regulatory bodies, aims to determine the cause of death and ensure accountability, as government officials and national leaders express condolences to the family.

The Lagos State Government has ordered an investigation into allegations of medical negligence following the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of celebrated Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at a private hospital in Lagos. The directive comes amid public concern over the circumstances surrounding the child’s death and the family’s account of the incident.
In an official statement issued by the family, it was disclosed that Nkanu Nnamdi, whom Adichie shares with her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, after a brief illness. The toddler was one of the author’s twin sons. His death has since generated widespread sympathy and intense public discussion, given Adichie’s prominence both in Nigeria and internationally.
The Lagos State Government said it had been formally notified of Adichie’s account of the incident and described the circumstances surrounding the child’s death as deeply distressing. In a statement expressing its condolences, the government acknowledged the profound pain associated with the loss of a child. It noted that such a tragedy is devastating for any family and extended its thoughts and prayers to Adichie, her husband, and their loved ones during the difficult period.
According to a statement released by the state government, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, known as HEFAMAA, to immediately commence an independent and transparent investigation into the incident. The purpose of the probe is to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the child’s death and to establish whether there were any lapses in the standard of care provided at the hospital involved.
The government said the investigation will involve a detailed examination of compliance with established clinical protocols, professional conduct, and patient safety standards. It will also assess the specific roles and responsibilities of all individuals and institutions involved in the child’s treatment and care. Authorities assured the public that the findings of the investigation would be made public once the process is concluded, in line with the government’s commitment to transparency and public accountability.
The incident has also drawn reactions from national leaders. President Bola Tinubu is among those who have expressed condolences to the bereaved family. In a statement shared on X, the president said he empathised deeply with Adichie and her husband, noting that no pain compares to the loss of a child. He added that, as a parent who has personally experienced loss, he mourns the tragic death with them and shares in their grief.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government confirmed that HEFAMAA officials have already visited the hospital implicated in the case and have begun a comprehensive review of the allegations and the medical reports related to the child’s treatment. The probe will also involve collaboration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, as well as other relevant regulatory bodies, to ensure that the investigation is thorough, impartial, and credible.
The state government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding patient welfare and maintaining high medical standards across all health facilities in Lagos. It stressed that any violations or professional misconduct uncovered during the investigation would be addressed in accordance with existing laws and regulations, as authorities seek to prevent similar incidents in the future.