Summary: The Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel suspends three doctors and investigates ten others following the tragic death of Chimamanda Adichie’s 21-month-old son, Nkanu Adichie-Esege.
The Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel has taken decisive action in the heartbreaking case involving the death of Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the 21-month-old son of Nigeria’s internationally celebrated author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
Three Doctors Suspended from Practice
Following a thorough investigation, the panel has suspended three senior medical practitioners from practicing medicine in Nigeria after establishing a prima facie case of medical negligence. Those suspended are:
– Dr. Tunde Majekodunmi – Medical Director of Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital
– Dr. Titus Ogundare – Anesthesiologist at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital
– Dr. Atinuke Uwajeh – Chief Medical Officer at Atlantis Pediatric Hospital
According to a statement signed by the panel’s secretary, Dr. Enejo Abdu, these medical professionals will remain suspended pending the determination of their case by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.
Ten Additional Doctors Under Investigation
The panel has also found a prima facie case of misconduct in a professional respect against ten other doctors involved in the child’s care. They include:
– Dr. Adeseye Akinsete
– Dr. Chidinma Ohagwu
– Dr. Anthony Ajeh
– Dr. Amarachi Bayo
– Dr. Nkechi Peji
– Dr. Olaoye Oludare
– Dr. Agaja Oyinkansola
– Dr. Patricia Akintan
– Dr. Babatunde Bamgboye
– Dr. Raji Faidat
Meanwhile, eight other doctors who were initially under investigation have been cleared of any wrongdoing.
What Happened to Nkanu Adichie-Esege?
The tragic incident occurred on January 7, 2026, when young Nkanu, who was being treated for what initially appeared to be a mild but worsening illness, lost his life following medical procedures at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos.
According to reports from Channels TV, the child was first admitted to Atlantis Hospital in Lagos. As his parents made arrangements to transfer him to Johns Hopkins Hospital in the United States for advanced care, Atlantis Hospital referred him to Euracare for pre-flight diagnostic procedures.
These procedures included:
– An MRI scan
– A lumbar puncture
– Insertion of a central line
Sadly, Nkanu passed away following these procedures.
Parents Allege Medical Negligence
Chimamanda Adichie and her husband have alleged medical negligence and professional misconduct in connection with their son’s death. Their complaint prompted the comprehensive investigation that has now resulted in these suspensions and ongoing disciplinary proceedings.
Panel’s Investigation Process
The Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel reached its decisions after a meticulous review process that included:
– Examining complaints against all 21 doctors initially implicated
– Reviewing counter-affidavits submitted by the medical practitioners
– Hearing oral depositions given under oath
The panel concluded its investigation during its 25th session held at Excel Hotel & Resort in Abuja on February 17th and 18th, 2026.
Implications for Nigeria’s Healthcare System
This case has once again brought the issue of medical negligence and accountability in Nigeria’s healthcare system to the forefront. It underscores the critical importance of proper medical protocols, especially when dealing with vulnerable patients like young children.
The swift action by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel demonstrates that no medical practitioner, regardless of their position or the prestige of their institution, is above accountability when lives are at stake.
As this case proceeds to the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, many Nigerians will be watching closely, hoping for justice for the Adichie family and systemic improvements in our healthcare delivery.
Our thoughts remain with Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, her husband, and their family during this incredibly difficult time.
—This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as the tribunal proceedings unfold.
check buzzUp9ja for more details
Be the first to comment