Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital has defended two of its clinical staff members suspended in connection with the death of Nkanu Nnamdi Esege, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
In a statement released Wednesday, the hospital expressed “confidence in the professionalism and integrity” of the doctors affected by an interim suspension ordered by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.
The suspended doctors include Euracare’s Medical Director Tunde Majekodunmi and anaesthesiologist Titus Ogundare. Also suspended is Atinuke Uwajeg of Atlantis Pediatric Hospital.
Child’s Death and Allegations
Nkanu Adichie-Esege died on January 7, 2026, after complications during preparatory medical procedures. Following the incident, Adichie issued legal notices to the hospitals, alleging medical negligence and professional misconduct.
A panel of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria later said it had established a prima facie case of medical negligence against Euracare and Atlantis Hospital in the handling of the toddler’s care.
Hospital Responds
Reacting to the development, Euracare said media reports highlighted interim suspension orders affecting thirteen doctors involved in the case, including two from its clinical team.
“We wish to place on record our confidence in the professionalism and integrity of our clinical team,” the hospital said, describing the affected doctors as experienced professionals with long records of service in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The hospital added that the doctors had contributed significantly to delivering quality medical care comparable to international standards.
Concerns Over Investigation Process
Euracare also raised concerns about the procedures followed during the investigation.
According to the hospital, certain established protocols may not have been adhered to during the process. It also alleged breaches of confidentiality, stating that matters covered by patient and institutional privacy appeared to have been disclosed outside appropriate channels.
The hospital said it intends to pursue its concerns through legal and regulatory mechanisms while insisting that the process must be conducted with fairness, rigour, and respect for established rules.
Outcome of Panel Review
The investigative panel reviewed the roles of 21 doctors through written complaints, counter-affidavits, and sworn oral testimony.
- 3 doctors were suspended
- 10 were found to have prima facie cases of professional misconduct
- 8 were cleared
The suspended doctors remain barred from practising medicine pending the outcome of proceedings before the disciplinary tribunal.
Euracare concluded its statement by expressing sympathy to the bereaved family.
“We continue to empathise with the family of Master Nkanu Nnamdi Esege. The loss of a child is a grief without measure.”
