Home / Crime and Justice / Adichie's Son's Death: Inquest Begins
Adichie's Son's Death: Inquest Begins
26 Feb
Summary
- An inquest into a toddler's death will start on April 14.
- Parents allege medical negligence led to the child's cardiac arrest.
- The hospital denies wrongdoing, stating care met international standards.
An inquest into the death of Nigerian novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi Esege, will commence on April 14. This date was established during a preliminary hearing at the Yaba Magistrate Court in Lagos, approximately seven weeks after Nkanu's passing at Euracare hospital.
Adichie and her family have lodged accusations of negligence against Euracare, alleging that Nkanu was denied oxygen and administered too much sedation, ultimately leading to cardiac arrest. Conversely, the hospital has issued a statement expressing condolences while firmly denying any wrongdoing, asserting that the care provided adhered to international standards.
The court is expected to examine evidence from medical experts and hospital representatives. Legal submissions indicate Nkanu was initially admitted to Atlantis Hospital for a worsening illness before being referred to Euracare for pre-flight investigations, which included an MRI and spinal tap. He died on January 7 following these procedures.
This tragic event has prompted widespread discussion regarding patient safety within Nigeria's healthcare system, highlighting critical concerns about the quality of care provided.
