Coroner begins inquest into death of Chimamanda’s son April 14

The Lagos state judiciary will on April 14 begin a coroner’s inquest into the death of the 21-month-old son of author Chimamanda Adichie.

Nkanu, one of Adichie’s twins, died on January 7, 2026, following complications during a series of preparatory medical procedures.

Adichie subsequently served the hospital a legal notice, alleging that medical negligence and professional misconduct contributed to her son’s death.

Atinuke Adetunji, the magistrate handling the matter, set the inquest date after hearing the introductions of all legal representatives at the Yaba magistrate court.

Kemi Pinheiro appeared for the family, Adebola Rahman represented the Lagos state attorney-general while Cheluchi Onyemelukwe stood for Atlantis, the hospital that referred the family to Euracare. Euracare also had its own representation.

During the preliminary meeting, Adetunji said the inquest is being conducted at the request of the attorney-general, adding that the Lagos government, like the family, is affected by the loss.

“The Lagos State Government is also bereaved; that is why the Attorney-General has taken this step. It is not just the family of the deceased that is affected,” she said.

After the preliminary session, the magistrate directed all parties to submit their witness statements ahead of the next hearing, emphasising that the court’s main goal is to determine the cause of death.

Adetunji noted that the inquest will begin with an autopsy.

Chimamanda’s lawyer urged the court to proceed with the case, saying the family intends to present evidence of alleged “gross medical negligence, possible overdose, wrongful prescription, improper administration of propofol, and wrongful diagnosis”.

He added that five independent medical experts, along with the child’s father who is also a doctor, are expected to testify. He also requested that the hospital preserve all relevant physical and digital records, including CCTV footage, medical data, pharmacy logs, equipment records, and internal reports.

The magistrate ruled that Euracare will present its account first, followed by the Adichie family and then Atlantis.

The hearing was adjourned to April 14 for the formal commencement of the inquest.