Coroner's Court Sets April Date for Inquest into Death of Chimamanda Adichie's Son
The Coroner's Court sitting at the Yaba Magistrate Court in Lagos has fixed April 14, 2026, to commence a formal inquest into the death of 21-month-old Master Nkanu Nnamdi Esege, the son of award-winning Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr Ivara Esege. This decision marks a significant step in a case that has drawn widespread public attention following the toddler's tragic passing on January 7, 2026.
Details of the Case and Allegations
Nkanu died after receiving treatment at Atlantis Hospital and undergoing diagnostic procedures at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos. According to court documents, the child was initially admitted to Atlantis Hospital for a worsening but mild illness. As arrangements were being made to transfer him to Johns Hopkins Hospital in the United States for specialist care, he was referred to Euracare for pre-flight procedures, including an MRI, lumbar puncture, and insertion of a central line. However, the toddler passed away following these procedures.
The parents, represented by Professor Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), are alleging gross medical misconduct, including claims of wrongful diagnosis and negligence. At the preliminary sitting, Pinheiro stated that the family believes their son's death was unnatural and occurred during medical intervention. He disclosed plans to present evidence alleging gross medical negligence, wrongful prescription, and improper administration of propofol.
Court Proceedings and Key Statements
Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji announced the adjournment when the matter came up on Wednesday, setting the stage for what could become one of the most closely watched inquests in recent times. She revealed that the inquest application came from the Chief Coroner of Lagos State following a request by the Attorney-General. "The Lagos State Government is also bereaved," she said, adding that the process was not only about the family but the wider public interest.
Magistrate Adetunji stressed that an autopsy report would be the starting point of the inquiry, noting that determining the cause of death is central to every inquest. She ruled that Euracare would open its defence when proceedings commence, followed by the family and then Atlantis Hospital.
Family's Legal Strategy and Evidence
In a firm request, the family's counsel urged the court to direct Euracare to preserve all physical and electronic evidence from January 6, including CCTV footage, monitoring data, pharmacy records, and internal communications. Pinheiro further stated that five independent medical professionals, including an anaesthesiologist, paediatric anaesthesia specialist, radiologist, intensivist, and the child's father, who is also a medical doctor, would testify during the inquest.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about medical standards and accountability in Nigeria's healthcare system. The inquest is expected to delve deeply into the circumstances surrounding Nkanu's death, with potential implications for hospital protocols and regulatory oversight.
