The Coroner’s Court sitting at the Igbosere Magistrate Court, Lagos Island, on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, suspended further proceedings in the inquest into the death of 21‑month‑old Nkanu Adichie‑Esege, son of renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege. The suspension followed a directive communicated from the Lagos State Attorney‑General’s office, pending instructions from the Chief Coroner, Justice Mojisola Dada.
Counsel from the Ministry of Justice informed the court that Attorney‑General Lawal Pedro had ordered that the matter be put on hold until after a meeting with all parties, now rescheduled for May 12, 2026.
However, Coroner Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji openly criticized the directive, insisting that the coroner’s court operates independently of the Ministry of Justice.
In her ruling, she stated: “It is appalling that the Attorney‑General would take such steps without informing the court. Under the principle of separation of powers, the AG lacks authority to direct the court.”
Counsel to the deceased’s parents, Adeyinka Aderemi, SAN, noted that parties had initially received notice fixing the meeting for Tuesday, May 5, but were only informed late on Monday that it had been postponed. He further stressed that Dr. Ivara Esege, father of the deceased, was present in court and prepared to testify.
The inquest, which commenced on February 25, 2026, is examining the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. Nkanu was referred from Atlantis Paediatric Hospital to Euracare Multi‑Specialist Hospital for medical procedures. He reportedly died in the early hours of January 7, 2026, while arrangements were being made to transfer him to Johns Hopkins Hospital in the United States.
... Coroner’s Inquest into Death of Chimamanda Adichie’s Son Suspended Amid Dispute Over AG’s Directive ... Naijaonpoint.