Dr. Ivara Esege, the husband of celebrated author Chimamanda Adichie, has vowed to continue seeking justice over the death of his 21-month-old son, Nkanu Adichie-Esege.
Nkanu died on January 7, 2026, at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos.
Dr Esege alleged that the hospital was attempting to hinder a judicial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
He said the search for answers goes beyond his family, adding that it is also about accountability and justice for all Nigerians.
“We are waiting and hoping that Euracare will not be able to use its wealth and power to stop an inquest. If this is allowed to happen, it will be a mockery and abuse of the entire judicial system.”
According to Dr Esege, his son arrived at Euracare awake, responsive and in a stable condition. Doctors scheduled several tests, including an MRI scan, a PICC line procedure and a lumbar puncture. Plans were also underway to transfer him to Johns Hopkins Hospital the following day.
However, less than 24 hours later, Nkanu had died.
Dr. Esege recalled:
“He was to be transferred the following day to Johns Hopkins Hospital in the United States for treatment. Less than 24 hours after arriving at Euracare, he was dead. It is putting it mildly to call the loss of Nkanu devastating.”
He said the family cremated their son at Ebony Funeral Home following a recommendation from Euracare’s Chief Medical Director.
In a letter dated January 28, 2026, the family requested a public inquest into the death. Euracare also sought an inquest, describing the incident as unexpected.
The first hearing was fixed for February 25, with Euracare scheduled to present its case first. However, the proceedings have been postponed until October 2026.
“It has been a nightmare dealing with Euracare while keeping life as normal as possible for our daughter and for Nkanu’s twin brother and trying to protect my wife from much of this upheaval,” Dr. Esege lamented.
The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria set up a panel to investigate the death. In a letter dated February 25, 2026, the panel said there was a case of alleged negligence for Tosin Majekodunmi and Titus Ogundare to answer.
Dr Esege said the family’s fight for justice goes beyond their personal loss. According to him, it is aimed at improving healthcare standards in Nigeria and helping to prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies.
