The Lagos State Government has expressed deep sympathy to celebrated Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, and her family over the death of her young son, Nkanu, who passed away on January 6.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, described the loss as a heart-rending blow that words can scarcely heal.
She said the state government’s attention had been drawn to troubling reports surrounding Nkanu’s death, which allegedly followed a medical episode at a private healthcare facility in Lagos.
“The death of a child is a profound tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this extremely difficult time.
“Lagos State Government extends its heartfelt condolences and assures the family of its concern and commitment to justice.”
Ogunyemi stressed that the state holds human life as sacred and operates a zero-tolerance stance against medical negligence or unprofessional behaviour in any health facility within its jurisdiction.
Acting on this resolve, she disclosed that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to immediately launch a comprehensive, independent and transparent investigation into the incident.
According to her, the probe is aimed at uncovering both the immediate and underlying factors that led to the tragic death.
She added that HEFAMAA has already swung into action, visiting the health facility involved as part of its ongoing inquiry.
Ogunyemi noted that the agency would thoroughly examine all reports and allegations connected to the case.
“HEFAMAA, which is statutorily established to regulate, monitor, and accredit both public and private health facilities in Lagos State, also as part of its core mandate carryout routine investigation of all cases of alleged medical negligence and unethical practices.
“This statutory responsibility is exercised consistently to uphold patient safety, professional standards, and the quality of health service delivery across the State.
“The Agency will work in close collaboration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other relevant regulatory bodies in the course of the investigation to ensure a holistic, credible, and professional review process.
“The investigation will examine the allegations raised, including compliance with established clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved.”
She assured that the outcome of the investigation would be made public once concluded, in the spirit of openness and accountability.
“The Lagos State Government assures the public that 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.”
Ogunyemi appealed to the public to stay calm and refrain from speculation while the investigation runs its course, emphasising that due process would be followed to ensure justice and credibility.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the health, safety and rights of residents, while tightening oversight of medical practice to prevent a repeat of such heartbreaking incidents.
An official statement from the family had earlier revealed that Nkanu, aged 21 months, whom the author had with her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, died after a brief illness.
The statement, issued by Omawumi Ogbe of GLG Communications, said, “The family is devastated by this profound loss, and we request that their privacy be respected during this incredibly difficult time.”
However, days later, sources close to the family alleged medical negligence at a private Lagos hospital where the child was taken for medical procedures ahead of a planned evacuation to the United States for further treatment.
