Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has leveled serious accusations of medical negligence against Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos, following the tragic death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi, on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
In a statement confirmed by her media team to ARISE News, the author detailed a harrowing series of events that she believes led to her son’s preventable death.
The Incident: Sedation and Complications
Adichie revealed that her son was referred to Euracare on January 6 for an MRI scan and the insertion of a central line. These procedures required sedation, for which the anesthesiologist allegedly administered an excessive dose of propofol.
According to the author, the medical team failed to provide proper monitoring following the sedation. The situation rapidly escalated into a “living nightmare” as the child suffered:
- Unresponsiveness
- Severe seizures
- Cardiac arrest
“My son would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th,” Adichie stated. “He was intubated and placed in the ICU. Soon after, he developed seizures and suffered cardiac arrest. Hours later, Nkanu was gone.”
Background to the Referral
The family had been in Lagos for the Christmas holidays when Nkanu developed an infection that escalated from a common cold. He was initially admitted to Atlantis Hospital, which recommended the transfer to Euracare specifically for the MRI and central line, describing it as the “best facility” for such complex pediatric procedures.
Adichie recounted waiting outside the theatre and witnessing staff “rushing in,” at which point she realized a major error had occurred. She has specifically criticized the “casual handling” of the procedure and accused the anesthesiologist of criminal negligence.
Allegations of Prior Incidents
Adding to the gravity of the claims, Adichie stated that her family has since learned of two previous incidents involving the same anesthesiologist allegedly overdosing children. She questioned why the medical professional was still allowed to practice at the facility despite these supposed prior warnings.
Hospital and Government Response
As of the time of reporting, Euracare Hospital has declined to provide a detailed rebuttal or explanation, citing confidentiality between the facility and the family.
“Whatever information you need, you get it between us and Chimamanda. Thank you,” a spokesperson for the hospital stated.
This development follows a formal message of condolence from President Bola Tinubu, who described the loss of a child as life’s deepest tragedy. The case has sparked an intense national conversation regarding medical standards, accountability in Nigeria’s private healthcare sector, and the protection of patients during routine procedures.
Source: ARISE News
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