The Lagos State Government has launched a high-level investigation into the death of Nkanu, the 21-month-old son of world-renowned author Chimamanda Adichie.
The order follows allegations of medical negligence at a private hospital in the state.
In a press statement released on Saturday, the Special Adviser to the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Health, Kemi Ogunyemi, expressed the government’s profound condolences to the Adichie family.
He described the loss of a child as an irreparable tragedy.
Following a distressing public account by Adichie regarding the events of January 6, Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to conduct a “thorough, independent, and transparent” probe.
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The investigation seeks to uncover the immediate and remote causes of the toddler’s death.
HEFAMAA has already visited the facility involved as part of its initial inquiry and commenced a comprehensive review of clinical protocols and patient safety standards.
The agency partnered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to ensure a holistic and professional review process.
The agency reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance policy for professional misconduct within the state’s healthcare system.
“Lagos State Government places the highest value on human life. Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence or regulatory violations will face the full wrath of the law.”
The agency added that the findings of this investigation will be made public to ensure transparency and accountability, providing much-needed answers to the bereaved family.
Nkanu, one of Ms Adichie’s twin boys, passed away after a medical incident while the family was on holiday in Lagos.
The news has drawn a massive outpouring of grief from global leaders, including President Bola Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, as well as the international literary community.
The agency urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation while regulatory bodies complete their inquiry.
Hospital speaks
Meanwhile, Euracare Multispecialist Hospital, in a statement signed by its management, expressed profound sympathy to Adichie and her family over the passing of their son.
The hospital acknowledged the deep and unimaginable grief they are enduring during this profoundly distressing time.
The statement read thus: “We find it necessary, for the record, to clarify that some of the reports currently being circulated contain inaccuracies. Our facility is a reputable centre for complex medical care, led by an internationally trained and experienced clinical team. The patient, who was critically ill, was referred to our facility for specific diagnostic procedures after receiving treatment for a period of time at two paediatric centres.
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“Upon arrival, our medical team immediately provided care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards, including the administration of sedation where clinically indicated. In the course of his care, we worked collaboratively with external medical teams as recommended by his family and ensured that all necessary clinical support was provided.
“Despite these concerted efforts, the patient sadly passed away less than 24 hours after presenting at our facility. We have commenced a detailed investigation consistent with our clinical governance standards and best practices. We remain committed to engaging transparently and responsibly with all clinical and regulatory processes. We recognise that the family is grieving an irreplaceable loss and we shall continue to support them in any way that may bring comfort during this devastating period.
“As medical professionals, we carry the weight of this loss deeply. Our priority remains compassion, patient safety, and the responsible handling of this matter, while respecting the family’s privacy and allowing due process to take its course. We continue to hold the family in our thoughts and prayers.”
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