An inquest into the death of the young son of writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has been put on hold by a coroner’s court sitting in Igbosere, Lagos.
The child, Nkanu Adichie-Esege, who was just 21 months old, died in January. He was the son of Adichie and her husband, Ivara Esege.
According to details presented in court, the toddler was first taken to Atlantis Paediatric Hospital before being referred to Euracare Multi Specialist Hospital, where he was admitted on January 6. He passed away in the early hours of January 7 after undergoing medical treatment.
Presiding magistrate, Atinuke Adetunji, announced that the proceedings would be suspended until further direction is received from the state’s chief coroner. The decision followed a directive issued by the Lagos State Attorney General, Lawal Pedro.
Adetunji questioned the move to initiate a restorative justice meeting without notifying the court, stressing that such actions raise concerns about due process. She pointed out that, based on the principle of separation of powers, the attorney general does not have the authority to interfere with or dictate court proceedings.
She added that the matter would be escalated to the chief coroner for guidance before a new date is fixed for the continuation of the inquest.
The magistrate also expressed displeasure that the Attorney General’s office communicated with parties involved in the case without formally informing the court.
