Medical Facility Under Scrutiny After Death Of Writer’s 21-Month-Old Son

Medical Negligence Allegations Trail Death of Chimamanda Adichie’s Son

FRESH details have emerged surrounding the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, after a brief illness in Lagos during the Christmas holidays.

Sources familiar with the matter said the child developed an infection and was undergoing medical evaluation while preparations were already in place for a full medical evacuation abroad. A specialist medical team was reportedly scheduled to transfer him to the United States for advanced care on 7 January.

According to the sources, Nkanu was taken to a private medical facility in Victoria Island, Lagos, on 6th January 2026, primarily to carry out tests requested by the overseas medical team. He was said to have arrived at the facility in a stable condition.

However, his condition reportedly deteriorated before the planned evacuation could take place. Individuals close to the family have raised concerns about the quality of medical attention provided in the hours leading to his death, questioning whether appropriate clinical procedures were followed.

One source described the incident as “a failure of care,” arguing that the outcome might have been different had proper protocols been strictly observed. The family has not issued a public statement beyond requesting privacy.

Efforts to obtain a response from the medical facility involved were ongoing as of the time of filing this report.