Posted on: Wed 04-03-2026

The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has suspended three medical doctors over findings of alleged negligence in the treatment of 21-month-old Nkanu Adichie-Esege, son of acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

The decision followed an investigation by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel, which examined complaints surrounding the child’s death on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, after a brief illness.

Those suspended include the Medical Director of Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, Dr Tunde Majekodunmi; the hospital’s anesthesiologist, Dr Titus Ogundare; and the Chief Medical Officer at Atlantis Pediatric Hospital, Dr Atinuke Uwajeh.

The trio has been barred from practising medicine in Nigeria pending the determination of their cases by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.

Allegations of Improper Monitoring

Recounting the events leading to her son’s death, Adichie alleged that Nkanu was taken to Euracare Hospital in Lagos for an MRI scan and insertion of a central line after developing what was initially thought to be a common cold but later progressed into what she described as “a very serious infection.”

According to her account, the child was sedated with propofol during the procedure but was not properly monitored thereafter. She alleged that complications ensued, including loss of responsiveness, seizures and eventual cardiac arrest.

“He would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th,” Adichie stated.

Prima Facie Case Against 10 Others

Beyond the three suspensions, the panel found a prima facie case of professional misconduct against 10 other doctors. They are Dr Adeseye Akinsete, Dr Chidinma Ohagwu, Dr Anthony Ajeh, Dr Amarachi Bayo, Dr Nkechi Peji, Dr Olaoye Oludare, Dr Agaja Oyinkansola, Dr Patricia Akintan, Dr Babatunde Bamgboye and Dr Raji Faidat.

Eight additional doctors investigated in connection with the case were cleared of any wrongdoing.

Panel Proceedings

The decisions were reached after the panel reviewed petitions filed against 21 doctors, examined counter-affidavits submitted in their defence, and considered oral depositions given on oath.

The investigation was concluded during the panel’s 25th session held in Abuja on February 17 and 18, 2026.

The case is expected to proceed before the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, where final determinations on professional liability and sanctions will be made.

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