By Ayo Kehinde 
The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has flagged a prima facie case of medical negligence and professional misconduct in the tragic death of Master Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the 21-month-old son of internationally acclaimed author, Chimamanda Adichie.
Following a formal complaint lodged on January 16, 2026, the Council launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the toddler’s death. Medical practitioners from Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital and Atlantis Paediatric Hospital responded to the complaint by submitting affidavits and giving oral testimony before the MDCN Investigative Panel.
At the conclusion of its 25th session in Abuja on February 17–18, 2026, the Panel determined that a prima facie case of negligence had been established against three doctors: Dr Tosin Majekodunmi, Medical Director of Euracare; Dr Titus Ogundare, Anaesthesiologist at Euracare; and Dr Atinuke Uwajeh, Chief Medical Director of Atlantis Paediatric Hospital. The Council issued interim suspension orders against the three pending formal disciplinary proceedings.
In addition, the Panel found professional misconduct on the part of 10 other practitioners from Atlantis Paediatric Hospital. “These cases have been referred to the Medical and Dental Practitioners’ Disciplinary Tribunal for formal hearing and determination in accordance with the Council’s statutory mandate”, the MDCN stated.
The Council emphasised that these findings are preliminary and do not constitute a final determination of liability. “The affected practitioners are entitled to a full hearing before the Disciplinary Tribunal, where evidence will be examined and a final decision rendered”, it added.
MDCN further pledged transparency and adherence to its regulatory framework throughout the process, noting that proceedings before the Tribunal are expected to commence in due course.
