Lagos Coroner's Court adjourns inquest into Chimamanda Adichie's son's death to 2026
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Coroner's Court in Lagos has adjourned the inquest into the death of 21-month-old Nkanu Adichie-Esege, son of author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege, until October 8, 2026. This decision follows an order from the Lagos State High Court for a stay of proceedings. Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, represented by Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, filed a judicial review application challenging the Coroner's Court's jurisdiction, arguing that the child's body was allegedly cremated before the inquest began. The High Court granted leave for judicial review and ordered a stay of proceedings pending the determination of the substantive suit, which is adjourned to June 8, 2026. Counsel for the deceased's family, Kemi Pinheiro, confirmed that four witness statements have been filed, including from Dr. Ivara Esege and medical experts. Pinheiro acknowledged the High Court's order but insisted the inquest should eventually proceed, stating that inquests can be conducted even without a body. Counsel for Atlantis Pediatric Hospital, Efe Ize-Iyamu, confirmed receipt of the High Court order. Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji set the new date after hearing all parties.
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