Lawyers representing renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her partner, Dr. Ivara Esege, have formally written to a Lagos-based private hospital following the death of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi Adichie-Esege.
The legal action comes amid allegations of medical negligence and has prompted the suspension of a doctor involved in the child’s care, as investigations by the hospital and Lagos State health authorities continue.
Legal Notice to Hospital
In a legal notice dated January 10, the family’s lawyers accused the hospital and its medical personnel of breaching their duty of care in the treatment of the toddler. The notice demands certified copies of all medical records connected to the child’s admission and treatment, including consent forms, monitoring charts, procedure notes and intensive care reports.
The lawyers also requested that the hospital preserve all relevant evidence, including CCTV footage and electronic monitoring data, warning against the destruction or alteration of records as investigations proceed.
Events Leading to the Tragedy
According to the legal filing, the child had been referred to the hospital for diagnostic and preparatory procedures ahead of a planned medical evacuation abroad. These procedures reportedly included imaging tests and the insertion of medical lines.
The family alleges that the child’s condition deteriorated after sedation and during transfers within the hospital, raising concerns about inadequate monitoring and failure to follow standard safety protocols. Questions have also been raised over the administration of anaesthesia and the timeliness of medical response when the child showed signs of distress.
Hospital and Government Response
Following public attention and the legal notice, the hospital confirmed that the anaesthesiologist involved in the case has been suspended pending the outcome of investigations. The Lagos State Government has also initiated an inquiry through its health regulatory agencies, assuring the public of a transparent and thorough review.
Medical authorities and professional bodies have indicated interest in the case, given its implications for patient safety and standards of care in private healthcare facilities.
Public Reaction and Broader Concerns
The incident has sparked widespread public debate on medical accountability, patient rights and healthcare regulation in Nigeria. Many have called for stricter oversight of private hospitals and clearer enforcement of professional standards to prevent similar tragedies.
Seeking Answers and Accountability
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, an internationally celebrated author, has described the loss of her son as devastating. The legal steps taken by her lawyers underscore the family’s demand for clarity, responsibility and justice, as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
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