The Lagos State Judiciary has scheduled April 14, 2026, for the commencement of a coroner’s inquest into the death of Nkanu, the 21-month-old son of renowned Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

Nkanu passed away on January 7, 2026, following complications linked to a series of preparatory medical procedures. In response, the family served a legal notice on the hospital involved, alleging that medical negligence and professional misconduct contributed to the child’s death.

The inquest date was set by Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji of the Yaba Magistrate Court after counsel for all parties formally entered their appearances. Kemi Pinheiro represented the Adichie family, while Adebola Rahman appeared on behalf of the Lagos State Attorney-General. Legal teams for Atlantis Hospital and Euracare were also present in court.

Magistrate Adetunji noted that the inquest was initiated at the request of the Attorney-General, emphasizing that the Lagos State Government has a vested interest in ensuring a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding Nkanu’s death.

“The Lagos State Government is also bereaved; that is why the Attorney-General has taken this step. It is not just the family of the deceased that is affected,” she said.

The court directed all parties to file and exchange their witness statements ahead of the hearing. The magistrate explained that the main objective of the inquest is to determine the exact cause of death, beginning with the presentation of autopsy findings.

The Adichie family’s counsel indicated their intention to submit evidence alleging gross medical negligence, including claims of possible overdose, wrongful prescription, improper administration of propofol, and misdiagnosis. The family plans to call five independent medical experts as witnesses, in addition to the child’s father, who is also a medical doctor.

Magistrate Adetunji ruled that Euracare will present its case first when the inquest begins, followed by the Adichie family, and then Atlantis Hospital. The matter was adjourned to April 14 for the formal commencement of proceedings.