By Huldah Shado
Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s lawyers have petitioned Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos following the death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi. The Lagos State Government has confirmed the suspension of the anaesthesiologist involved as investigations continue.
The legal notice, issued by law firm PINHEIRO LP on behalf of Adichie and her partner, Dr Ivara Esege, alleges that the hospital and attending medical staff breached their duty of care.
Nkanu had been referred to Euracare from Atlantis Pediatric Hospital on January 6, 2026, for an echocardiogram, brain MRI, lumbar puncture, and PICC line insertion as part of preparations for urgent medical evacuation to the United States.
According to the notice, Nkanu received intravenous sedation with propofol but developed severe complications while being transferred from the MRI suite to the cardiac catheterisation lab.
He was pronounced dead in the early hours of January 7, 2026.
The lawyers cited multiple alleged lapses, including excessive sedation, inadequate airway protection, insufficient monitoring during transfer, lack of supplemental oxygen, and delayed recognition of respiratory or cardiovascular distress. They also questioned the availability of resuscitation equipment and the number of medical personnel accompanying the child.
Adichie stated that her son initially showed cold-like symptoms that escalated into a serious infection.
She alleged that he was not properly monitored after sedation, which led to seizures, cardiac arrest, and his subsequent death.
The hospital is under investigation, and the anaesthesiologist remains suspended as authorities and the family seek clarity on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
