A medical investigation panel in Nigeria has suspended three doctors, including the Medical Director of Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos, as part of an ongoing probe into the death of Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the 21-month-old son of celebrated Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
The Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel announced the suspension after concluding that there is a prima facie case of medical negligence in the handling of the child’s treatment.
Nkanu died on January 7, 2026, after receiving care at Atlantis Pediatric Hospital and undergoing medical procedures at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos.
Doctors Suspended Pending Tribunal
Those suspended from medical practice include the Medical Director of Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, Dr. Tunde Majekodunmi, the hospital’s anesthesiologist Dr. Titus Ogundare, and the Chief Medical Officer of Atlantis Pediatric Hospital, Dr. Atinuke Uwajeh.
In a statement issued by the panel’s secretary, Dr. Enejo Abdu, the regulatory body confirmed that the doctors are barred from practicing medicine in Nigeria pending the outcome of proceedings before the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.
The panel explained that the suspension was necessary after reviewing evidence suggesting professional misconduct in the medical management of the child.
Ten Other Doctors Also Under Scrutiny
Beyond the three suspended doctors, the panel stated that there is also a prima facie case of professional misconduct against ten additional doctors who were involved in aspects of the child’s treatment.
The doctors named include:
- Dr. Adeseye Akinsete
- Dr. Chidinma Ohagwu
- Dr. Anthony Ajeh
- Dr. Amarachi Bayo
- Dr. Nkechi Peji
- Dr. Olaoye Oludare
- Dr. Agaja Oyinkansola
- Dr. Patricia Akintan
- Dr. Babatunde Bamgboye
- Dr. Raji Faidat
At the same time, the panel cleared eight other doctors after examining their roles in the case.
According to officials, the decisions were reached after carefully reviewing complaints filed against the 21 medical professionals involved, as well as their counter-affidavits and sworn oral testimonies.
Investigation Sessions Held in Abuja
The panel concluded its preliminary investigation during its 25th session held at Excel Hotel & Resort in Abuja on February 17 and 18, 2026.
The outcome of the review established grounds for further disciplinary proceedings before the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.
What Happened Before the Child’s Death
Nkanu Adichie-Esege was initially admitted to Atlantis Pediatric Hospital in Lagos for what was described as a worsening but initially mild illness.
As his condition evolved, plans were reportedly being made to transfer him to Johns Hopkins Hospital in the United States for advanced treatment.
Before the transfer could take place, Atlantis Hospital referred the child to Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital for pre-flight diagnostic procedures.
Medical procedures reportedly conducted at Euracare included:
- An MRI scan
- A lumbar puncture
- The insertion of a central line
Tragically, the child passed away shortly after undergoing these procedures.
Parents Allege Medical Negligence
Following the incident, the child’s parents raised serious concerns about the medical care their son received, alleging negligence and professional misconduct.
Their complaint triggered the formal investigation that has now led to the suspension of several doctors and the launch of disciplinary proceedings.
The case is expected to proceed before the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, where the allegations and evidence will be examined in detail.
The tribunal will determine whether the accused doctors violated professional standards and whether further sanctions should be imposed.
