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

Nkanu died on January 7, 2026, following complications arising from a series of preparatory medical procedures, according to accounts presented before the court.

The inquest date was set by Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji of the Yaba Magistrate Court after counsel representing all parties announced their appearances.

At the proceedings, Kemi Pinheiro appeared on behalf of the Adichie family, while Adebola Rahman represented the Lagos State Attorney-General. Legal representatives for Atlantis Hospital and Euracare were also present.

Magistrate Adetunji stated that the inquest was initiated at the request of the Attorney-General, noting that the Lagos State Government has a vested interest in ensuring a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the child’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,” the magistrate said.

The court directed all parties to file and exchange witness statements ahead of the hearing. According to the magistrate, the primary objective of the proceedings is to determine the precise cause of death, beginning with the presentation of the autopsy findings.

Counsel to the family informed the court of their intention to present evidence alleging gross medical negligence. The claims include possible overdose, wrongful prescription, improper administration of propofol and misdiagnosis.

The family is expected to call five independent medical experts as witnesses, in addition to the child’s father, who is also a medical doctor.

Magistrate Adetunji further ruled that Euracare will open its case at the commencement of the inquest, followed by the presentation of evidence by the Adichie family and thereafter Atlantis Hospital.

The matter was adjourned to April 14, 2026, for the formal commencement of proceedings.