The Nigerian Society of Anaesthetists (NSA) says it is closely monitoring allegations of medical negligence linked to the death of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi, who died after a brief illness, the society’s president said in an interview on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
NSA National President Professor Alhassan Mohammed disclosed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the body has initiated observation of the developing claims regarding the circumstances surrounding the toddler’s death. An official family statement said Nkanu died on January 7, 2026, following a short illness.
The family’s communications team, led by Omawumi Ogbe of GLG Communications, said in its statement: “The family is devastated by this profound loss, and we request that their privacy be respected during this incredibly difficult time.”
Sources close to the family subsequently alleged that Nkanu was taken to a private hospital in Lagos for medical procedures ahead of a planned evacuation to the United States, and that medical negligence at the facility was central to his death.
The procedures reportedly included an MRI scan and the insertion of a central line, during which the child was sedated and later suffered complications.
Professor Mohammed said the NSA anticipates that the hospital involved will conduct an internal inquiry by reviewing both oral and documented evidence. He noted that patient records, whether manual or electronic, would form a critical part of any such investigation.
“The hospital involved is likely to conduct its own investigation for more facts by getting oral and documented evidence,” he said. “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.”
According to Mohammed, any formal investigation by the NSA will focus on several key areas, including the verification of the registration status of the individuals and facilities involved, compliance with approved scopes of practice, adherence to medical protocols, and whether any negligence contributed to the incident. He added that the society is awaiting additional information before making further comment.
The monitoring by the NSA comes amid broader public attention on the allegations, which have been publicly discussed following the family’s initial announcement of the child’s death. As of publication, the Euracare Hospital implicated in the allegations had not issued a formal public response to the claims.
Health sector stakeholders say any findings could have implications for medical oversight, patient safety protocols and regulatory enforcement within private healthcare facilities in Nigeria, particularly in cases involving critical procedures and sedation.
