The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria has suspended three doctors following the death of 21-month-old Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the son of renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Ivara Esege.
The decision was announced after an investigation by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel set up by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
Among those suspended is the Medical Director of Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, Dr Tunde Majekodunmi. Also suspended are Dr Titus Ogundare, an anesthesiologist at Euracare, and Dr Atinuke Uwajeh, the Chief Medical Officer at Atlantis Pediatric Hospital.
The trio will not be allowed to practise medicine in Nigeria until their cases are decided by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.
Nkanu, one of the author’s twin sons, died on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after a short illness. He was 21 months old.
According to his mother, what first appeared to be a common cold later developed into a serious infection. The child was taken to Euracare Hospital in Lagos for further treatment, including an MRI scan and the insertion of a central line.
In a public statement after her son’s death, Adichie alleged that medical negligence played a role in what happened.
She said her son was sedated for the procedure and given propofol, a drug commonly used to induce sleep during medical procedures. However, she claimed he was not properly monitored afterward.
The child reportedly became unresponsive, developed seizures and later suffered cardiac arrest.
“He would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th,” she said.
The case sparked public debate across Nigeria, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
The MDCN set up an investigation panel to examine complaints against 21 doctors connected to the case.
After reviewing written complaints, counter-affidavits and oral evidence given under oath, the panel concluded that there was evidence of medical negligence against the three suspended doctors.
The panel’s findings were reached during its 25th session held in Abuja on February 17 and 18, 2026.
In addition to suspending the three doctors, the panel found a prima facie case of professional misconduct against 10 other doctors. This means there is enough evidence for the matter to proceed to the disciplinary tribunal.
The affected doctors 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 and Dr Raji Faidat.
Eight other doctors who were investigated were cleared of any wrongdoing.
The tribunal will now review the cases and decide whether further sanctions, including possible withdrawal of licences, are necessary.
The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria is the body responsible for regulating the practice of medicine and dentistry in the country. It ensures that doctors follow professional and ethical standards.
When complaints are made against doctors, the council can set up investigation panels. If there is evidence of misconduct, the case is referred to the disciplinary tribunal, which has the power to suspend or remove doctors from practice.
Medical negligence cases in Nigeria have increased public concern in recent years, especially in private hospitals where patients often pay high fees for care.
The death of the young child has drawn national attention because of his mother’s public profile. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is one of Nigeria’s most respected writers, known globally for her novels and essays. Her works have addressed social justice, gender equality and Nigerian identity.
Many Nigerians have expressed sympathy for the family and called for accountability.
Medical professionals have also stressed that the case should not lead to fear but rather encourage stronger safety measures in hospitals.
The suspended doctors will remain barred from practising until the disciplinary tribunal concludes its hearings and delivers a final decision.
For the Adichie-Esege family, the focus remains on seeking justice for their son.
As investigations move to the next stage, many Nigerians will be watching closely. The outcome may shape future discussions about patient safety, medical standards and accountability in the country’s healthcare system.
