Professor Francis Faduyile, a former President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and Professor of Pathology and Forensic Medicine at Lagos State University, has cautioned against what he described as a “media trial” following the tragic death of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s 21-month-old son, Nkanu.
The child died in the early hours of January 7 during an emergency procedure at Euracare Hospital, Lagos, sparking national attention and debate over medical negligence in the country. In the aftermath, Adichie publicly accused the hospital staff, including the attending anaesthesiologist, of “criminal negligence,” prompting calls for accountability across Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Faduyile stressed that proper regulatory channels must be followed. He questioned why the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN)—the statutory body tasked with investigating medical practice—has yet to be fully constituted. “It is important for our populace to know that there are different ways to handle cases of medical negligence rather than resorting to the media,” he said.
Upholding Medical Protocols
Faduyile emphasized that the medical profession has structured mechanisms to address negligence claims, adding that adherence to these procedures would strengthen public trust. “Every profession has its ethics and regulations. Let us follow the process. Sometimes it may be long and torturous, but can you blame the populace? It may be difficult because they have lost a loved one and are in deep grief,” he explained.
He expressed confidence that, if properly supported, the MDCN could handle such investigations effectively. “I can tell you that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, if given the necessary support base, would do what is necessary, and it would strengthen the medical profession in this country,” Faduyile noted.
Delays in Constituting the Council
The former NMA president criticized the government for the prolonged delay in constituting the MDCN. “We need to call on the government. Why are you hesitating to set up the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria? This is over one year. There is no reason. Almost all the members there are statutory,” he said.
Legal Steps by the Adichie Family
Meanwhile, Chimamanda Adichie and her husband have taken legal action against Euracare Hospital. A notice, dated January 10 and issued by the law firm of Kemi Pinheiro, alleges medical negligence and professional misconduct, asserting that Nkanu’s death resulted from breaches in the duty of care during a series of procedures.
The notice outlines specific concerns, including complications during intra-hospital transfer while sedated with propofol, inadequate monitoring, improper dosing, insufficient oxygen supply, lack of personnel, and delays in responding to the child’s deteriorating condition.
Lagos State Government Response
In response, the Lagos State Government has initiated an official investigation. The Special Adviser on Health to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Mrs. Kemi Ogunyemi, confirmed that the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) is conducting a thorough review of Euracare Hospital.
“The investigation will examine compliance with clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the roles of all parties involved. Findings will be made public,” Ogunyemi said. She added that HEFAMAA will collaborate with the MDCN and other relevant bodies to ensure transparency and credibility.
Commentary
The Adichie-Euracare case highlights the tension between public outcry and formal regulatory processes in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. While grief and media attention amplify demands for swift justice, experts like Faduyile caution that bypassing established procedures could undermine both professional accountability and systemic integrity. Analysts note that timely constitution and empowerment of regulatory bodies like the MDCN are critical to maintaining public trust and ensuring that investigations are both thorough and impartial.
© 2025 Gossip News Now, a division of CHIEJOS HARBIAN DIGITAL MEDIA LTD. Contact us via admin@gossipnewsnow.online
