Doctors suspended over death of prominent author’s son

Nigeria's Medical Council has provisionally suspended the director of a private hospital and two other doctors following the death of the 21-month-old son of renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Nkanu Adichie-Esege, one of twins, died on 7 January after complications arose during preparatory medical procedures at Euracare Hospital in Lagos, reports BBC News. The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria investigation panel established a prima facie case of medical negligence against Euracare and Atlantis Hospital over the child’s management. The three doctors have all been suspended from practising medicine pending the determination of their cases by a disciplinary tribunal. Dr Munir Bature, publicity secretary for the Nigeria Medical Association, confirmed the suspensions. ‘What will ultimately happen to those affected will be determined after another panel sits on their case,’ he said. He added that they could permanently lose their licences. The doctors have not commented. The family of Adichie had accused the hospital of negligence, alleging that medics denied oxygen to her son and administered excessive sedation, which they say led to cardiac arrest. The hospital denied any wrongdoing. An inquest into Nkanu's death is due to begin on 14 April at the Yaba Magistrate's Court in Lagos. The case has sparked a wider debate about patient safety in Nigeria's healthcare system.