Euracare Hospital says it has launched an internal investigation following Chimamanda Adichie’s allegation that negligence at the facility led to the death of her 21-month-old son.
On Wednesday, Nkanu Nnamdi, one of the author’s twin sons, died after an emergency during a medical procedure at the hospital.
Adichie, however, alleged that her son’s death was a result of what she described as “criminal negligence” at Euracare Hospital.
She had recounted how the toddler initially seemed to have a cold but quickly developed a severe infection.
Adichie claimed the anaesthesiologist in charge was “criminally negligent, fatally casual, and careless with the precious life of a child.”
In a statement, Euracare expressed sympathy to Adichie and her family over the son’s death, calling the loss “profound and unimaginable.”
The hospital said some reports about the incident contained inaccuracies.
It describe itself as a reputable centre for complex medical care, staffed by internationally trained professionals.
The hospital explained that the “critically ill” child was referred to the hospital for specific procedures after receiving treatment at two other paediatric centres.
The hospital said the medical team provided immediate care according to established protocols and in collaboration with the other centres as advised by the family, but the child unfortunately passed away less than 24 hours after arriving.
Euracare added its thorough internal investigation will be in line with clinical governance standards and affirmed its commitment to transparency, patient safety, and supporting the family during their grief.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to Chimamanda Adichie and family on the demise of their son and acknowledge the profound and unimaginable loss they are experiencing during this deeply distressing time,” the statement reads.
“The loss of a child is beyond words, and we offer our most heartfelt condolences to his parents and the entire family. We find it necessary, for the record, to clarify that some of the reports currently being circulated contain inaccuracies.
“Our facility is a reputable centre for complex medical care, led by an internationally trained and experienced clinical team.
“The patient, who was critically ill, was referred to our facility for specific diagnostic procedures after receiving treatment for a period of time at two paediatric centres.
“Upon arrival, our medical team immediately provided care in line with established clinical protocols and internationally accepted medical standards, including the administration of sedation where clinically indicated.
“In the course of his care, we worked collaboratively with external medical teams as recommended by his family and ensured that all necessary clinical support was provided. Despite these concerted efforts, the patient sadly passed away less than 24 hours after presenting at our facility.
“We have commenced a detailed investigation consistent with our clinical governance standards and best practices. We remain committed to engaging transparently and responsibly with all clinical and regulatory processes.
“We recognise that the family is grieving an irreplaceable loss and we shall continue to support them in any way that may bring comfort during this devastating period.
“As medical professionals, we carry the weight of this loss deeply. Our priority remains compassion, patient safety, and the responsible handling of this matter, while respecting the family’s privacy and allowing due process to take its course. We continue to hold the family in our thoughts and prayers.”
