The Lagos State Government has ordered an urgent investigation into the reported medical negligence that allegedly led to the death of Nkanu, the son of renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at a private hospital in Lagos. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu gave the directive through the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) following public concern over the incident, which occurred on January 6, 2026, the statement was said. In a press release signed by Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, the government expressed deep condolences to the grieving family, describing the loss as “a profound tragedy,” the statement was said. “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate sincerely with Ms. Chimamanda Adichie and her family over this painful and irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this extremely difficult time,” the statement was said. The government reiterated its zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating in Lagos State, the statement was said. “Lagos State Government places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the State,” the statement was said. Dr. Ogunyemi added that HEFAMAA has already begun a thorough investigation and visited the facility involved, she was said. “The Governor has directed HEFAMAA to immediately commence a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with a view to uncovering both immediate and remote causes of the death,” she was said. The investigation will include a detailed review of clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the responsibilities of all parties involved, she was said. HEFAMAA will also work closely with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other regulatory bodies to ensure the process is credible and professional, she was said. “Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability,” she was said. She further warned that any health facility or professional found culpable of negligence or regulatory violations would face the full weight of the law, she was said. The government urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the health, safety, and rights of all residents, the statement was said. “Lagos State remains committed to continuously strengthening oversight of medical practice to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents,” she was said, extending condolences to Ms. Adichie and her family and assuring that justice and due process would not be compromised.
