Lagos Probes ‘Medical Negligence’ Claims after the Death of Author Chimamanda’s Son

The Lagos State Government has launched an independent investigation into claims of medical negligence following the death of 21-month-old Nkanu Nnamdi, the son of Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, a government statement said on Thursday.

Nnamdi, one of a set of twins, died on January 7 after a brief illness at a private hospital in Lagos, according to an official family statement. Local authorities said they were notified of the incident and described the child’s death as a deeply distressing tragedy.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to conduct a transparent review of clinical protocols, professional conduct and patient safety standards at the facility where Nnamdi died. The probe will also involve the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and other regulatory bodies, the government said.

In a statement, the government expressed sympathy to the bereaved family and said the findings of the investigation would be made public upon completion. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also issued condolences, saying he empathises with the family’s loss.

The development has drawn national attention, given Adichie’s prominence in global literature and advocacy, and it underscores growing calls for accountability and quality standards in private healthcare across Nigeria.

SOURCE: MRA