The family of renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has accused a Lagos-based hospital of medical negligence following the death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi.

Nkanu died on Wednesday, December 27, 2025, after being admitted to Euracare Hospital in Lagos for a short illness. The family says they are “devastated” and allege a series of critical failures that contributed to the toddler’s death.

Speaking on Arise TV, Adichie’s sister-in-law, Dr Anthea Nwandu, claimed the child was denied oxygen, left unattended, improperly transported, and given excessive sedation — which she says triggered a cardiac arrest and subsequent brain injury.

According to Dr Nwandu, Euracare’s medical director later admitted to the family that Nkanu had been over-sedated.

Similar allegations appeared in a private message written by Adichie that was later leaked online. Her spokesperson, Omawumi Ogbe, confirmed the message was shared privately and not intended for public release.

“While we are saddened that such a deeply personal account of grief and trauma was leaked, the details highlight devastating clinical failures the family is now forced to confront,” Ogbe said, adding that the family is seeking truth and accountability.

Euracare Hospital has denied the allegations, expressing sympathy while insisting the child received care in line with international medical standards. In a statement, the hospital said Nkanu arrived “critically ill” after treatment at two paediatric centres and was given appropriate sedation as part of established clinical protocols.

Despite “concerted efforts” and collaboration with external medical teams recommended by the family, the hospital said the child died less than 24 hours after admission. Euracare confirmed that an internal investigation is ongoing.

Lagos State Ministry of Health spokesperson Dr Kemi Ogunyemi also confirmed that a “thorough, independent, and transparent” investigation has been launched by the state’s health watchdog.

“Nigeria places the highest value on human life,” she said, warning that any individual or institution found culpable would face the full force of the law.

Nkanu was one of twin boys born via surrogate in 2024 to Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege. The acclaimed author, known for Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah, and We Should All Be Feminists, has received condolences from Nigeria’s president and prominent figures worldwide.

Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation while investigations continue.