LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has issued a legal notice to Euracare Hospital following the death of her infant son, despite the Lagos-based private facility’s earlier denial of wrongdoing and expression of sympathy to her family.
The legal notice, dated January 10, was served by Adichie and her husband, Ivara Esege, through the law firm of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Kemi Pinheiro. It accuses Euracare Hospital, its anaesthesiologist, and attending medical personnel of medical negligence and breach of duty of care in the treatment of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi.
READ ALSO: Toyin Lawani Accuses Euracare Hospital Of Medical Negligence After Failed Surgery
Prior to the notice, Euracare had released a public statement expressing condolences to the bereaved family while maintaining that the child was critically ill upon arrival at the hospital. The facility insisted that all medical care provided followed established protocols and confirmed that an internal review of the case was underway.
However, the family’s legal filing presents a different account of events leading to the child’s death in the early hours of January 7. According to the notice, Nkanu underwent multiple procedures, including an echocardiogram, a brain MRI, a lumbar puncture, and the insertion of a central line, as part of preparations for a planned medical evacuation to the United States.
The notice alleged that complications arose after the toddler was sedated and transferred within the hospital. It cited poor monitoring, improper drug administration, inadequate oxygen support, insufficient medical staffing, delayed response to signs of distress, and concerns regarding informed consent and the availability of functional resuscitation equipment.
In addition to outlining these allegations, Adichie and Esege formally demanded certified copies of all medical records relating to their son’s treatment within seven days. They also warned against any destruction or alteration of evidence connected to the case.
While Euracare has not issued a new statement in response to the legal notice, the matter has intensified public conversation around medical accountability in Nigeria.
For the widely celebrated author, the dispute unfolds against a backdrop of deep personal loss. She has previously described grief as overwhelming and disorienting following the death of her father. The loss of her young son now adds a devastating new layer, transforming private mourning into a public pursuit of answers and accountability.
