Three Euracare doctors suspended by Nigeria’s Medical Council over negligence in the death of Chimamanda Adichie’s 21-month-old son

The Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel set up by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has suspended the Medical Director of Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, Dr Tunde Majekodunmi, and two other doctors following findings of medical negligence in the treatment of 21-month-old Nkanu Adichie-Esege.

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Nkanu, one of the twin sons of renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband Ivara Esege, tragically died on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after a brief illness. Adichie alleged negligence in the medical care her son received at Euracare Hospital in Lagos.

She explained that her son was taken to the hospital for an MRI scan and the insertion of a central line after initially developing a common cold that escalated into a serious infection.

During the procedure, Nkanu was sedated but reportedly not properly monitored after receiving propofol, leading to complications including seizures, cardiac arrest, and loss of responsiveness.

Following the panel’s investigation, the medical director Dr Majekodunmi, the hospital’s anesthesiologist Dr Titus Ogundare, and the Chief Medical Officer at Atlantis Pediatric Hospital, Dr Atinuke Uwajeh, were suspended from practising medicine in Nigeria until their cases are determined by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.

The panel also found prima facie cases of professional misconduct against 10 other doctors, including Dr Adeseye Akinsete, Dr Chidinma Ohagwu, Dr Anthony Ajeh, Dr Amarachi Bayo, Dr Nkechi Peji, Dr Olaoye Oludare, Dr Agaja Oyinkansola, Dr Patricia Akintan, Dr Babatunde Bamgboye, and Dr Raji Faidat. Eight other doctors were cleared of wrongdoing.

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The disciplinary decisions followed a review of complaints against all 21 doctors, examination of counter-affidavits, and consideration of oral depositions on oath. The panel concluded its investigation during its 25th session in Abuja on February 17 and 18, 2026.