Euracare Hospital has announced that it has begun an internal investigation following the death of Nkanu, the 21-month-old son of renowned author, Chi
Euracare Hospital has announced that it has begun an internal investigation following the death of Nkanu, the 21-month-old son of renowned author, Chimamanda Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, on January 6 after a brief illness.
Adichie had accused the hospital of negligence which led to the death of her son.
The hospital expressed sympathy to Adichie and her family, describing the loss as profound and unimaginable, while insisting that some reports about the incident contained inaccuracies.
The hospital described itself as a reputable centre for complex medical care, staffed by internationally trained and experienced professionals.
Euracare explained that the child was critically ill and had been referred to its facility for specific diagnostic procedures after receiving treatment at two other paediatric centres.
The hospital said its medical team provided immediate care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards, working collaboratively with external medical teams as recommended by the family.
However, the hospital stated that the child died less than 24 hours after arriving at the facility.
Euracare added that it had commenced a detailed internal investigation consistent with its clinical governance standards and best practices, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, patient safety and continued support for the grieving family.
The hospital stated, “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.”
Similarly, the Nigerian Society of Anaesthetists says it is monitoring allegations of medical negligence surrounding
In an official family statement, its National President, Prof. Alhassan Mohammed, said, “The hospital involved is likely to conduct its own investigation for more facts by getting oral and documented evidence. You know the patient will have a record, whether manual or electronic, that can be printed out there.
“Then there may be an independent investigative panel to look further based on the allegations, depending on if the mother or relatives want to take it further,” Mohammed said.
He explained that the investigation would focus on verification of the registration status of the individuals and facilities, compliance with approved scopes of practice, adherence to medical protocols, and identification if negligence contributed to the incident.
Mohammed said NSA awaits more information before commenting further on the issue.
