Lagos govt orders probe into death of Chimamanda Adichie’s son

Lagos State Government has ordered a comprehensive investigation into allegations of medical negligence surrounding the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who reportedly died at a private hospital in Lagos.

The toddler, one of Adichie’s twin sons, was said to have passed away on January 6 after a brief illness.

In a statement released on Saturday and signed by the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, the state government said it had been officially informed of the “deeply distressing” account shared by the author regarding the circumstances surrounding her son’s death.

The government expressed condolences to Adichie and her family, describing the loss of a child as a devastating tragedy.

“The Lagos State Government places the highest premium on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the state,” the statement said.

According to the statement, Governor Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, HEFAMAA, to immediately launch a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the incident to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the child’s death.

“In line with this directive, HEFAMAA has commenced investigation and has already visited the facility involved as part of the ongoing inquiry,” the statement noted.

The government said the agency would conduct an extensive review of all allegations, medical records and reports connected to the case.

It added that HEFAMAA would work closely with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, MDCN, and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure a credible and professionally guided investigation.

“The investigation will examine issues including adherence to clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved,” the statement said.

The government assured the public that the outcome of the investigation would be made public once concluded, in line with its commitment to transparency and accountability.

“Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct or regulatory violations will face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law,” the statement added.

The Lagos State Government urged residents to remain calm and avoid speculation while investigations are ongoing, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the health, safety and rights of all residents and strengthening oversight of medical practice across the state.