The family of acclaimed Nigerian novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has leveled accusations of negligence against a hospital following the death of her 21-month-old son.
Nkanu Nnamdi passed away at a Nigerian hospital on Wednesday after a brief illness, leaving the family of the celebrated author “devastated”.
The family alleges a series of failures at Euracare Hospital in Lagos contributed to the toddler’s death, including the denial of oxygen and the administration of excessive sedation, which they claim led to cardiac arrest.
Euracare Hospital expressed its “deepest sympathies” regarding the child’s passing but denied any improper care, asserting that its actions were consistent with international medical standards.
The hospital added that Nkanu arrived in a “critically ill” state and that an internal investigation into the circumstances of his death is currently underway.
Dr. Anthea Nwandu, Adichie’s sister-in-law, detailed a series of allegations against the hospital during an interview with Nigerian broadcaster Arise TV on Saturday.
She stated that Euracare’s medical director informed Adichie that her son “had received too much sedation,” which subsequently caused him to suffer a heart attack.
Dr. Nwandu further accused the medical staff of neglecting the child, withholding oxygen, and transporting him in a manner “not according to standard practice.”
She alleged that Nkanu sustained a brain injury due to oxygen deprivation.
Similar accusations regarding Nkanu’s care were outlined in a private message from Adichie that was leaked online.
Her spokeswoman, Omawumi Ogbe, told the BBC that the message was initially shared within “a close circle of family and friends” and “was not for public consumption.”
Ms. Ogbe continued, “While we are saddened that such a deeply personal account of grief and trauma was leaked, the details therein highlight the devastating clinical failures the family is now forced to confront.”
“We hope that the substance of that message, detailing the gross medical negligence that led to this tragedy remains the central focus, even as we look forward to the truth and accountability.”
Nkanu was one of twin sons Adichie shared with her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege.
In response to the allegations, Euracare Hospital acknowledged the “profound and unimaginable loss” the family is experiencing but stated on Saturday that “reports currently being circulated contain inaccuracies.”
The hospital stated that Nkanu, who was critically ill, had been referred after receiving treatment at two pediatric centers, and upon arrival, staff “immediately provided care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards, including the administration of sedation.”
It continued, “In the course of his care, we worked collaboratively with external medical teams as recommended by his family and ensured that all necessary clinical support was provided.”
However, “despite these concerted efforts,” the boy died less than 24 hours after arriving at the hospital, it added.
A “detailed investigation” is underway, Euracare said, adding that it remains “committed to engaging transparently and responsibly with all clinical and regulatory processes.”
Adichie, 48, had her first child, a daughter, in 2016. Her twin boys were born via surrogate in 2024.
The award-winning writer, based in the U.S., is renowned for works including *Half of a Yellow Sun*, *Americanah*, and her 2012 TED Talk and essay *We Should All Be Feminists*, which was sampled by Beyoncé in her 2013 song “Flawless.”
Nigeria’s president was among those who have expressed condolences over the death of Nkanu.
The African nation’s health system has recently suffered from a severe shortage of doctors, resulting in healthcare staff working extended hours and physicians juggling positions in both public and private hospitals.
In response to the allegations concerning Nkanu, Lagos State Ministry of Health spokeswoman Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi stated that it “places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct.”
She confirmed that the state’s health watchdog has commenced a “thorough, independent, and transparent” investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.
“Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct, or regulatory violations will face the full wrath of the law,” Dr. Ogunyemi stated.
She urged the public to avoid speculation regarding the death while the official investigation is ongoing.
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