…the panel suspended the Medical Director, Euracare Hospital and Chief Medical Officer, Atlantis Pediatric Hospital.
ABUJA, NIGERIA — The iNews Times | The Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel has suspended Dr. Tunde Majekodunmi, Medical Director of Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, alongside two other doctors, over findings of medical negligence in the treatment of 21-month-old Nkanu Adichie-Esege, one of the twin sons of acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Ivara Esege.
The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a brief illness in which Nkanu was initially treated for what was thought to be a common cold. According to Chimamanda Adichie, her son’s condition rapidly worsened into a severe infection requiring an MRI scan and central line insertion at Euracare Hospital in Lagos.
During the procedure, Nkanu was sedated with propofol but reportedly was not adequately monitored, leading to complications that included seizures, loss of responsiveness, and ultimately cardiac arrest. Adichie stated, “He would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th,” highlighting alleged lapses in standard medical care.
The Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel convened to examine the circumstances surrounding Nkanu’s death. Following the review, the panel suspended:
- Dr. Tunde Majekodunmi – Medical Director, Euracare Hospital
- Dr. Titus Ogundare – Anesthesiologist, Euracare Hospital
- Dr. Atinuke Uwajeh – Chief Medical Officer, Atlantis Pediatric Hospital
The trio is barred from practicing medicine in Nigeria pending proceedings by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.
Prima Facie Cases and Other Findings
In addition to the three suspensions, the panel found prima facie evidence of professional misconduct against 10 other doctors, including 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 doctors were cleared of wrongdoing.
The decisions followed thorough scrutiny of complaints against all 21 doctors, counter-affidavits, and oral depositions taken under oath. The investigation concluded during the panel’s 25th session in Abuja on February 17 and 18, 2026.
Implications for Nigerian Healthcare
Legal and medical analysts say the panel’s actions send a strong message on accountability and patient safety in Nigeria, particularly regarding Euracare Hospital medical negligence cases. While the suspensions are temporary pending tribunal review, they underscore the importance of proper monitoring and adherence to clinical protocols in pediatric care.
