A coroner’s inquest into the death of 21-month-old Nkanu Nnamdi Esege, son of renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege, will begin on April 14, 2026. The child died on January 7, 2026, after undergoing medical procedures at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos. Nkanu was initially admitted to Atlantis Hospital for a worsening but mild illness and was referred to Euracare for pre-flight diagnostic procedures ahead of a planned transfer to Johns Hopkins Hospital in the United States.

The parents have alleged medical negligence and professional misconduct in connection with their son’s death, citing concerns over sedation dosing, airway management, and patient safety standards. The family plans to present evidence from five independent medical experts, including an anesthesiologist and a pediatric anesthesia specialist.

Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji has directed all parties to file their witness statements and preserve relevant evidence, including CCTV footage and medical records, ahead of the inquest.