Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has directed a full investigation into allegations of medical negligence following the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
Nkanu, one of Adichie’s twin sons, died at Euracare Multispecialist Hospital in Lagos on January 6, 2026, after a brief illness. On January 10, Adichie publicly accused the hospital of criminal negligence leading to her son’s death.
In a statement signed by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Lagos State Government confirmed that it had received Adichie’s account of the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. The statement described the loss of a child as a profound tragedy and extended condolences to the family.
Governor Sanwo-Olu has instructed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to commence a comprehensive, independent, and transparent investigation into the case. The inquiry will aim to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of Nkanu’s death and assess whether there were breaches of professional conduct or medical standards.
“The attention of the Lagos State Government has been drawn to the deeply distressing report by renowned Nigerian author, Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, concerning the tragic death of her son, Nkanu, following a medical incident at a private healthcare facility in Lagos on January 6,” the statement read.
It added that HEFAMAA has already begun the investigation, including visiting the hospital involved, and will conduct a comprehensive review of all related allegations and reports. The agency will work closely with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure a thorough and credible review.
“The investigation will examine the allegations raised, including compliance with established clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved. Findings will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability,” the statement said.
The Lagos State Government emphasized that any individual or institution found culpable of negligence or professional misconduct will face the full force of the law. Meanwhile, the public was urged to remain calm and avoid speculation while the investigation proceeds.
“Once again, we extend our deepest condolences to Ms. Chimamanda Adichie and her family,” the statement concluded, reiterating the government’s commitment to safeguarding residents’ health and strengthening oversight of medical practice to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.