Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has directed relevant health authorities to launch a full investigation into allegations of medical negligence following the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of renowned Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
The child, one of the author’s twin sons, reportedly passed away on January 6, 2026, after a brief illness at a private hospital in Lagos.
In a statement released on Saturday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, the Lagos State Government confirmed that it had received a detailed account from Adichie regarding the circumstances surrounding her son’s death. The government described the incident as deeply painful and extended its condolences to the bereaved family.
Governor Sanwo-Olu has ordered the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to immediately commence a comprehensive, independent and transparent probe into the matter.
According to the statement, the investigation will focus on establishing both the immediate and underlying causes of death, as well as determining whether there were any breaches of professional conduct or medical standards by the healthcare providers involved.
“The Lagos State Government places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional practices in any health facility operating within the state,” the statement read.
HEFAMAA has already visited the hospital concerned and begun reviewing medical records, reports and all relevant documentation connected to the case.
The agency is also expected to work closely with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other regulatory bodies to ensure that the investigation complies with established professional and ethical guidelines.
The scope of the inquiry will cover adherence to clinical protocols, patient safety measures, the conduct of healthcare personnel and the roles played by all parties involved in the child’s treatment.
The state government assured the public that the findings of the investigation would be made public upon completion, in line with its commitment to transparency and accountability in the health sector.
It also urged residents to remain calm and avoid speculation while the investigation is ongoing, warning that premature conclusions could compromise the integrity of the process.
Lagos State reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oversight of both public and private health facilities to improve patient safety and uphold healthcare standards across the state.
