Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Blames Euracare Hospital For Death Of 21-Month-Old Son
Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has accused Euracare Hospital of medical negligence after the death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi, on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. In a statement confirmed by her media team to ARISE News, Adichie said she initially shared the message privately with family and close friends. She explained that her son was taken to Euracare Hospital on January 6 for an MRI scan and the insertion of a central line. During the procedures, Nkanu was sedated but, according to Adichie, was not properly monitored after being given propofol, leading to complications including unresponsiveness, seizures, and cardiac arrest. “My son would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th,” she said. The author recounted that her family had been in Lagos for Christmas when Nkanu developed what they initially thought was a cold, which soon developed into a serious infection. He was admitted to Atlantis Hospital and was scheduled to travel to the United States the next day, with a team at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore awaiting him. Atlantis Hospital referred the family to Euracare, described as the best facility for the required procedures. Adichie recounted waiting outside the theatre while her son was sedated and witnessing staff rush in, realizing something had gone wrong. She said the anesthesiologist administered an excessive dose of propofol, leaving Nkanu unresponsive and requiring resuscitation. “He was intubated and placed in the ICU. Soon after, he developed seizures and suffered cardiac arrest. Hours later, Nkanu was gone,” she said, describing the ordeal as a “living nightmare.” Adichie accused the anesthesiologist of criminal negligence, claiming that her son was not properly monitored and protocols were not followed. She also alleged that the same anesthesiologist had previously overdosed other children, questioning why he was still allowed to practice. Euracare Hospital has not provided a detailed response. A spokesperson said, “Whatever information you need, you get it between us and Chimamanda. Thank you.” Adichie’s statement highlights her demand for accountability to prevent similar tragedies from occurring to other children.