Euracare Hospital in Lagos has announced an internal investigation following claims by award-winning author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie that negligence at the facility led to the death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi.
Gatekeepers News reports that the toddler, one of Adichie’s twins, died on Wednesday during a medical procedure at the hospital.
Adichie alleged that the anaesthesiologist in charge was criminally negligent, fatally casual, and careless with the precious life of a child, blaming the hospital for her son’s death.
In a statement on Saturday, Euracare expressed condolences to the family, describing the loss as profound and unimaginable. The hospital said some reports circulating online contained inaccuracies about the incident.
The hospital said, “We extend our deepest sympathies to Chimamanda Adichie and family on the demise of their son and acknowledge the profound and unimaginable loss they are experiencing during this deeply distressing time.”
“The loss of a child is beyond words, and we offer our most heartfelt condolences to his parents and the entire family. We find it necessary, for the record, to clarify that some of the reports currently being circulated contain inaccuracies.”
“Our facility is a reputable centre for complex medical care, led by an internationally trained and experienced clinical team. The patient, who was critically ill, was referred to our facility for specific diagnostic procedures after receiving treatment for a period of time at two paediatric centres.
“Upon arrival, our medical team immediately provided care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards, including the administration of sedation where clinically indicated.”
“In the course of his care, we worked collaboratively with external medical teams as recommended by his family and ensured that all necessary clinical support was provided.”
“Despite these concerted efforts, the patient sadly passed away less than 24 hours after presenting at our facility. We have commenced a detailed investigation consistent with our clinical governance standards and best practices. “
“We remain committed to engaging transparently and responsibly with all clinical and regulatory processes. We recognise that the family is grieving an irreplaceable loss and we shall continue to support them in any way that may bring comfort during this devastating period.”
As medical professionals, we carry the weight of this loss deeply. Our priority remains compassion, patient safety, and the responsible handling of this matter, while respecting the family’s privacy and allowing due process to take its course. We continue to hold the family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Euracare emphasised that the investigation would follow clinical governance standards and best practices while reaffirming its commitment to transparency, patient safety, and support for the grieving family.
