Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital has issued a strong defence of its clinical staff following the interim suspension of its Medical Director, Dr Tunde Majekodunmi, and two other doctors by Nigeria’s medical regulators. The action relates to the death of 21-month-old Nkanu Nnamdi Esege, the twin son of renowned author Chimamanda Adichie and her husband, Ivara Esege, who passed away on January 7, 2026.
In a statement, Euracare emphasised its full cooperation with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) but expressed “confidence in the professionalism and integrity” of the suspended doctors, Dr Majekodunmi and Dr Titus Ogundare. The hospital described them as experienced professionals with long-standing records of delivering quality healthcare in Nigeria comparable to international standards. It noted that an internal review had been conducted in line with clinical governance best practices.
However, the hospital raised significant procedural concerns about the investigation conducted by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel (MDPIP), the MDCN’s investigative arm. Euracare claimed that “certain established processes and protocols have not been followed in the manner required.” It also highlighted “deep concern” over apparent breaches of patient and institutional confidentiality, calling it a “serious breach that cannot go unaddressed.” The hospital stated it would formally raise these issues through legal and regulatory channels, affirming its commitment to “equality, fairness, and good governance” for all parties involved.
The suspensions stem from the MDPIP’s findings in a high-profile case. The panel determined that medical negligence contributed to the toddler’s death and suspended Dr Majekodunmi, Dr Ogundare, and Dr Atinuke Uwajeh of Atlantis Pediatric Hospital. It also found prima facie cases of professional misconduct against ten other doctors, while clearing eight of any wrongdoing. All 21 doctors were reviewed through complaints, counter-affidavits, and oral depositions. The suspended practitioners are barred from practising in Nigeria pending a final determination by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.
The case has drawn intense public and media scrutiny, placing Nigeria’s healthcare regulatory framework under the spotlight. While the investigation proceeds, Euracare reiterated its sympathy for the Esege family, acknowledging “the loss of a child is a grief without measure.” The developments underscore the ongoing tension between regulatory accountability and institutional defence in Nigeria’s medical sector, with the forthcoming tribunal hearing poised to be a critical test of due process.
