The Lagos State Government has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the alleged medical negligence that caused the death of Nkanu, the son of renowned Nigerian novelist Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at a private healthcare facility in Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu gave the directive through the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), following public concern generated by Ms. Adichie’s account of the tragic incident, which occurred on January 6.
In a press statement issued by Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Lagos State offered deep condolences to the mourning family, calling the child’s death “a profound tragedy.”
“On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate sincerely with Ms. Chimamanda Adichie and her family over this painful and irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this extremely difficult time,” the statement read.
The government reaffirmed its zero tolerance for medical negligence and unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the state.
“The Lagos State Government places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the state,” the statement added.
According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi, HEFAMAA has already commenced investigation into the matter and has visited the hospital involved.
“The Governor has directed HEFAMAA to immediately commence a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with a view to unraveling the immediate and remote causes of the death,” Ogunyemi said.
She explained that the investigation will include a thorough evaluation of clinical practices, professional behavior, patient safety standards, and the roles of all parties involved in the case.
HEFAMAA, she mentioned, would also collaborate with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other regulatory bodies to ensure credibility and professionalism in the process.
“The Agency will work in close collaboration with the MDCN and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure a holistic, credible, and professional review process,” she stated.
The Lagos administration told people that the investigation’s findings would be made public.
“Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability,” Ogunyemi said.
She issued a warning that any health facility or professional found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
“Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct, or regulatory violations will face the full wrath of the law, in accordance with existing legal and regulatory frameworks,” the statement declared.
The state government urged the people to remain calm and avoid conjecture but also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting all inhabitants’ rights, safety, and health.
“Lagos State remains committed to continuously strengthening oversight of medical practice to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents,” according to Ogunyemi.
The government expressed its sympathies to Ms. Adichie and her family, reassuring them that justice and due process would be upheld.
