Coroner halts inquest into death of Chimamanda Adichie’s son
The Coroner’s Court in Lagos Island has suspended its inquest into the death of Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the 21-month-old son of author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege. The suspension follows a directive from Attorney-General Lawal Pedro pending a meeting with all parties. Coroner Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji expressed concern over the directive, emphasizing judicial independence. The inquest is investigating the circumstances surrounding the child's death after medical procedures.
What happened
- The inquest was suspended following a directive from Attorney-General Lawal Pedro until after a meeting scheduled for May 12, 2026.
- Coroner Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji criticized the directive, stating the court operates independently from the Ministry of Justice.
- The inquest began on February 25 to investigate the death of Nkanu Adichie-Esege after referrals between hospitals.
- Nkanu Adichie-Esege reportedly died in the early hours of January 7, 2026, while arrangements were being made for his transfer to Johns Hopkins Hospital.
- The father of the deceased was present in court and prepared to testify.
