Lagos to probe de.ath of Chimamanda’s son

The Lagos State Government has ordered an urgent and thorough investigation into the reported medical negligence that allegedly led to the de.ath of Nkanu, the son of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at a private hospital in Lagos

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu issued the directive through the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) following public outcry after Ms. Adichie shared details of the tragic incident, which occurred on January 6, 2026.

In a statement signed by Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, the Lagos State Government expressed profound condolences to the bereaved family, describing the loss of a child as “a profound tragedy,” the statement was said.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate sincerely with Ms. Chimamanda Adichie and her family over this painful and irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this extremely difficult time,” the statement was said.

The government reaffirmed its zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the state, the statement was said.

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

According to Dr. Ogunyemi, HEFAMAA has already begun the investigation and visited the facility involved, she was said.

“The Governor has directed HEFAMAA to immediately commence a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with a view to uncovering both immediate and remote causes of the death,” she was said.

The investigation will involve a detailed review of clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the responsibilities of all parties connected to the case, she was said. HEFAMAA will also work closely with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure credibility and professionalism in the process, she was said.

“Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability,” she was said.

She added that any individual or facility found responsible for negligence or regulatory violations would face the full force of the law, she was said.

The government urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation while reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rights, safety, and health of all residents, the statement was said.

“Lagos State remains committed to continuously strengthening oversight of medical practice to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents,” she was said, extending further condolences to Ms. Adichie and her family and assuring that justice and due process would not be compromised.

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