Lagos court schedules April 14 inquest into Chimamanda Adichie’s son Nkanu’s death amid allegations of medical negligence

The Lagos State Judiciary has scheduled April 14, 2026, for a coroner’s inquest into the death of Nkanu, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

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Nkanu passed away on January 7, 2026, following complications linked to a series of medical procedures. The Adichie family served a legal notice on the hospital involved, alleging medical negligence and professional misconduct.

Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji of the Yaba Magistrate Court fixed the inquest date after counsel for all parties formally announced appearances.

Kemi Pinheiro represented the Adichie family, while Adebola Rahman appeared for the Lagos State Attorney-General. Legal teams for Atlantis Hospital and Euracare were also present.

Magistrate Adetunji stated that the proceedings aim to establish the precise cause of death, noting the Lagos State Government’s interest in ensuring a thorough investigation.

The inquest will begin with autopsy findings, after which the Adichie family plans to present evidence suggesting gross medical negligence, including claims of overdose, wrongful prescription, improper administration of propofol, and misdiagnosis. Five independent medical experts and the child’s father, a medical doctor, are expected to testify.

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Euracare and Atlantis Hospital will present their cases following the family’s evidence. All parties were directed to file and exchange witness statements ahead of the proceedings.The matter was adjourned to April 14, 2026, for the formal commencement of the inquest.