Chimamanda’s son: We will prove our innocence at Coroner’s Court – Atlantis Hospital

Atlantis Paediatric Hospital has responded to the report of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) concerning its handling of the late son of acclaimed Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, saying it has reservations about aspects of the findings and will address the issues at the appropriate legal forum.

The hospital said it would present a full explanation of its role during proceedings before the Lagos State Coroner’s Court, which is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

In a statement released by its management, Atlantis confirmed receiving a letter dated February 25, 2026, which was delivered on March 5, 2026, from the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel (MDPIP). The letter communicated an interim suspension of the hospital’s Chief Medical Director in connection with the case.

It would be recalled that Atlantis Paediatric Hospital initially treated the patient and handed him over to Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital for further evaluation and preparation for possible medical evacuation abroad. The child, however, died before the evacuation could take place.

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According to Atlantis Paediatric Hospital, it has reviewed the communication from the MDCN and intends to engage appropriate professional and regulatory bodies regarding issues arising from the panel’s findings.

“Atlantis Pediatric Hospital acknowledges receipt of a letter dated 25 February 2026 that was delivered on 5 March 2026, from the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel (MDPIP), communicating an interim suspension of our Chief Medical Director, with respect to which the hospital has noted certain reservations,” the statement said.

The hospital explained that it would refrain from extensive public commentary on the matter because the case is already before the Lagos State Coroner’s Court.

“Our decision is consequent upon realising that the matter is already before the Coroner’s Court of Lagos State that is conducting an ongoing inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of a patient,” the hospital said.

“Due to the pendency of this matter before the court and out of respect for judicial integrity and process, our hospital will exercise restraint in making any public commentary on matters that are currently before a court of law.”

Atlantis emphasised that it remains fully committed to cooperating with the Coroner’s Inquest and any lawful investigation aimed at establishing the facts of the incident. The hospital also extended condolences to the bereaved family.

“Our thoughts and sincere sympathies remain with the Adichie-Esege family following the sad loss of their child. The loss of a child is an immeasurably painful experience, and we extend our empathy to the family at this very difficult time,” the statement added.

While expressing sympathy to the family, Atlantis reaffirmed confidence in the professionalism of its medical team and the care provided at the facility.

“As a healthcare institution dedicated to paediatric care, Atlantis Pediatric Hospital remains steadfast in its commitment to the highest standards of medical practice, patient safety, and professional responsibility,” it said.

The hospital added that its medical professionals are competent and certified and expressed confidence that the care provided would be fairly assessed through the ongoing legal processes.

“We are confident that all our medical professionals exercised reasonable duty of care and judgment in the discharge of their duties and this will be established in due course.”

Atlantis assured the public that it would continue to cooperate with relevant authorities in the interest of transparency and proper determination of the facts, while refraining from further public statements until the conclusion of the legal and investigative processes.

The hospital also thanked patients, families and stakeholders for their understanding, reiterating its commitment to providing healthcare in accordance with the highest standards of paediatric medical practice.