Adichie Reflects on Son's Death and Cremation Decision

Chimamanda Adichie opened up about the death of her son, Nkanu, who died in January 2026 after developing complications during medical procedures at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital in Lagos. Adichie and her husband, Esege, have alleged medical negligence in their son's treatment, a claim that Euracare has denied.

The Medical and Dental Council found a prima facie case of negligence against three doctors involved in Nkanu's care. In a recent interview with The New York Times, Adichie recounted that Nkanu was administered Propofol for an MRI before suffering cardiac arrest.

The family claims they were not adequately informed about the severity of Nkanu's condition. Following his death, they decided to cremate him, a choice rooted in their grief and previous losses, including the deaths of Adichie's parents and Esege's brother.

This decision has become part of the legal dispute surrounding the coroner's inquest into Nkanu's death, with Euracare challenging the proceedings based on the cremation occurring before the inquest began.