The Lagos State Government has ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Nkanu, the son of renowned Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, following a medical incident at a private healthcare facility in the state.
In a press statement issued on Friday by the Ministry of Health, the state government expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended its condolences to Adichie and her family, describing the loss as tragic and irreparable.
“The Lagos State Government commiserates sincerely with Ms. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her family over this painful and irreparable loss. The death of a child is a profound tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this extremely difficult time,” the statement read.
The government reaffirmed its position on patient safety, stressing that it has zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within Lagos State.
According to the statement, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, HEFAMAA, to immediately commence a thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the incident with a view to determining both the immediate and remote causes of the death.
“HEFAMAA has since commenced investigation and visited the facility involved as part of the ongoing inquiry. The agency will conduct a comprehensive review of all allegations and reports relating to the incident,” the government said.
It further explained that HEFAMAA, as the statutory body responsible for regulating and accrediting public and private health facilities in the state, routinely investigates cases of alleged medical negligence and unethical practices in order to uphold patient safety and professional standards.
The state government disclosed that the agency would work closely with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure what it described as a holistic and credible review process.
“The investigation will examine compliance with established clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved. Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability,” the statement added.
The government also assured residents that any individual or institution found culpable would face appropriate sanctions in line with existing laws.
“Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct, or regulatory violations will face the full wrath of the law,” it stated.
While urging the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, the Lagos State Government maintained that due process would be followed to ensure fairness and justice.
