Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered a full-scale investigation into allegations of medical negligence following the death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-month-old son of renowned Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who reportedly died at a private hospital in Lagos.
The state government announced the decision in a statement issued on Saturday, confirming that it had received a detailed account from Adichie outlining the circumstances surrounding her son’s death.
Nkanu Nnamdi, one of the author’s twin sons, was said to have died on January 6 after a brief illness.
The statement, signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, described the incident as deeply distressing and extended the government’s condolences to Adichie and her family, noting that the loss of a child is a profound and painful tragedy.
According to the statement, Governor Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to immediately commence a comprehensive, independent and transparent investigation into the matter.
The probe will seek to establish both the immediate and underlying causes of the child’s death, as well as determine whether there were any lapses in professional conduct, patient safety procedures or adherence to established medical standards.
“The Lagos State Government places the highest premium on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the state,” the statement said.
It added that HEFAMAA has already begun preliminary inquiries and has visited the medical facility involved as part of the ongoing investigation.
The agency is expected to conduct a thorough review of all relevant medical records, reports and allegations linked to the case.
The state government further disclosed that HEFAMAA will work closely with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure that the investigation meets all professional, ethical and regulatory standards.
According to the statement, the scope of the investigation will include an assessment of compliance with clinical protocols, patient safety measures, the conduct of healthcare personnel, and the specific roles played by all parties involved in the child’s treatment.
The Lagos State Government assured residents that the findings of the investigation would be made public upon completion, in line with its commitment to transparency and accountability in the health sector.
“Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct or regulatory violations will face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
The government also appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid speculation while the investigation is ongoing, warning that premature conclusions could undermine the integrity of the process.
In recent years, Lagos State authorities have intensified efforts to strengthen oversight of both private and public health facilities through regulatory agencies such as HEFAMAA, amid recurring concerns over patient safety, standards of care and accountability within the healthcare system.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health and assured residents that the outcome of the probe would be fully disclosed in the interest of transparency and public trust.
