The world knows Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie for her powerful storytelling, but today, she is telling a story no parent should ever have to share.
Following the tragic passing of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi, the Adichie family has served Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos with a formal legal notice, alleging that “avoidable” medical negligence led to the toddler’s death.
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The Final Hours: What Went Wrong?
What was supposed to be a routine diagnostic procedure on January 6, 2026, turned into a nightmare. Nkanu was referred to Euracare for an MRI and the insertion of a central line—steps taken to prepare him for a medical evacuation to the United States.
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The family alleges that after being sedated with propofol, the young boy was not properly monitored. The legal notice details a harrowing series of failures:
Lack of Oxygen: Allegations that the child was moved within the hospital without supplemental oxygen.
Inadequate Staffing: A claim that insufficient medical personnel were present during critical transfers.
Monitoring Lapses: The family asserts that the hospital failed to recognize Nkanu’s deteriorating state until it was too late.
While Euracare has expressed deep sympathy, they maintain that Nkanu was “critically ill” upon arrival and that their staff followed international clinical protocols.
Lagos State Steps In
The weight of the Adichie name, combined with the gravity of the allegations, has moved the Lagos State Government to action. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered an immediate, transparent investigation via the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA).
“The Lagos State Government maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence. We will examine every protocol and every role played in this tragedy.” — Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health.
A Mirror to Nigeria’s Healthcare Crisis
Nkanu’s death has sparked a “digital town hall” on X (formerly Twitter). High-profile figures like Joe Abah have shared near-misses with unnecessary surgeries, while everyday Nigerians are recounting stories of misdiagnosis and “pressured” medical decisions.
Statistics from a recent study reported by Premium Times suggest that nearly 33.3% of patients in Nigeria experience additional injuries due to medical treatment. This case isn’t just about one family; it’s about a systemic need for error-reporting and professional accountability.
