Renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has publicly accused a private hospital in Lagos of medical neglect following the tragic death of her one-year-old son. The celebrated writer of Half of a Yellow Sun and Purple Hibiscus lost her son, Nkanu Nnamdi, on 6 January 2026.
A Mother's Devastating Allegations
In a heartfelt statement, the 48-year-old author detailed the circumstances leading to her son's passing. Nkanu was admitted to Euracare Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria, with a severe infection. The family was preparing for a medical evacuation to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, USA, where specialists were on standby.
As part of the pre-transfer procedures, the infant required an MRI scan. Adichie alleges that doctors administered the sedative propofol to keep him still but subsequently failed to monitor him. She states that the anaesthetist gave an excessive dose, causing the child to become unresponsive and require resuscitation.
"A short time later, I was told Nkanu had been given too much propofol by the anaesthesiologist, had become unresponsive and was quickly resuscitated," Adichie explained. The child was then placed on a ventilator in the intensive care unit but later developed seizures, suffered a cardiac arrest, and died.
"It turns out that Nkanu was never monitored after being given too much propofol," Adichie said. "How can you sedate a sick child and neglect to monitor him?" She firmly believes her son "would be alive today" if not for the incident at the hospital.
Hospital's Response and Denial
Euracare Hospital has issued a formal statement responding to the allegations. While extending their "deepest sympathies" and acknowledging the family's "profound and unimaginable loss," the hospital strongly denied any negligence.
The facility described itself as a "reputable centre for complex medical care" staffed by an internationally trained clinical team. They stated that the child was critically ill upon referral and that all care provided was in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted standards.
"Despite these concerted efforts, the patient sadly passed away less than 24 hours after presenting at our facility," the spokesperson said. The hospital confirmed it has commenced a detailed investigation in line with its clinical governance standards but emphasised its commitment to patient safety and compassionate care.
An Irreplaceable Loss
Representatives for Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her partner, Dr Ivara Esege, confirmed the couple are "devastated by this profound loss." The author, a vocal and influential figure in global literature and feminism, is now at the centre of a case that raises serious questions about medical standards and accountability.
The incident has sparked significant attention, highlighting concerns over healthcare provision. As the hospital's internal investigation proceeds, the family, along with many supporters worldwide, are left mourning the loss of a young life under deeply distressing circumstances.
