Chimamanda: Euracare Gets 7-Day Ultimatum to Release Medical Records

Renowned Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, have taken legal steps against Euracare Multi Specialist Hospital, Lagos, over the death of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Esege.

In a legal notice dated January 10, the couple accused the hospital and members of its medical team of negligence in the care provided to the toddler. The notice was issued through a team of lawyers led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Kemi Pinheiro.

According to the document, Nkanu was referred to Euracare from another hospital for specialised diagnostic procedures, including a brain MRI, echocardiogram, lumbar puncture and the insertion of a central line. These were meant to prepare him for a planned medical evacuation to the United States.

The family alleged that the child was sedated with propofol and later developed complications while being transferred within the hospital. They claimed that critical safety measures were not adequately observed, including continuous monitoring, proper oxygen delivery, airway management and sufficient medical supervision during the movement between clinical units.

Adichie and her husband are demanding that Euracare release all medical records connected to their son’s treatment within seven days. The requested documents include consent forms, monitoring charts, procedural notes, ICU reports and the names of all medical personnel involved in his care. The notice also instructs the hospital to preserve all relevant evidence, including electronic data and CCTV footage, warning that failure to do so could result in further legal and regulatory action.

Reacting to the development, Euracare Hospital expressed sympathy with the family but denied any wrongdoing. In a statement, the hospital said the child was brought in critical condition and maintained that medical care was provided in line with established clinical standards. It added that it would fully cooperate with any investigation by the appropriate authorities.

Amid growing public concern, the Lagos State Government has ordered an independent probe into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. The Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency has been directed to assess the hospital’s compliance with clinical protocols and patient safety standards, with findings expected to be made public.

Nkanu’s death was announced earlier last week following a brief illness. He was one of a set of twin boys born to Adichie and her husband through a surrogate in 2024. The family has appealed for privacy as they continue to grieve their loss.