The Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel has suspended three doctors over the death of Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Ivara Esege.
The suspended doctors include Dr. Tunde Majekodunmi, Medical Director of Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, Dr. Titus Ogundare, an anesthesiologist at the same hospital, and Dr. Atinuke Uwajeh, Chief Medical Officer at Atlantis Pediatric Hospital.
The decision followed an investigation into allegations of medical negligence. The case involved the administration of propofol for an MRI scan and the insertion of a central line. According to the panel, concerns were raised about monitoring procedures during sedation.
The investigation began after Chimamanda released a public statement explaining the circumstances that led to her son’s passing. She said what initially appeared to be a common cold later developed into a severe infection.
“He would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th.”
According to her account, the toddler reportedly suffered seizures and cardiac arrest after the procedure due to inadequate monitoring while sedated.
The panel reached its decision during its 25th session in Abuja. After reviewing affidavits and oral depositions, it ruled that the three doctors would remain barred from medical practice pending further proceedings.
“The doctors will remain barred from practicing medicine in Nigeria until their cases are determined by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.”
In addition, the panel found a prima facie case of professional misconduct against 10 other doctors, including Dr. Adeseye Akinsete and Dr. Chidinma Ohagwu. These doctors will face further disciplinary review.
However, eight other practitioners involved in the case were cleared of wrongdoing. The suspended doctors cannot resume clinical duties until the National Disciplinary Tribunal delivers its final verdict.
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