High Court Stops Inquest Proceedings
The coroner’s inquest into the death of 21-month-old Nkanu Adichie-Esege suffered a major setback on Wednesday.
Nkanu was the son of renowned author Chimamanda Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege.
The setback followed a court order obtained by Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital.
As a result, the Coroner’s Court suspended further proceedings.
The court also adjourned the matter until October 8, 2026.
Hospital Challenges Court’s Jurisdiction
The case came before Coroner Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji in Yaba, Lagos.
The court had planned to begin hearing witness testimony.
However, counsel to Euracare Hospital, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN), informed the court about a fresh legal challenge.
According to him, the hospital filed judicial review proceedings at the Lagos State High Court.
The hospital is challenging the Coroner Court’s authority to conduct the inquest.
Specifically, it questioned the process without the deceased’s body.
Furthermore, Osipitan said the High Court granted leave for the application.
The court also ordered a stay of proceedings.
Therefore, the inquest cannot continue until the High Court decides the matter.
Family Acknowledges Court Order
Meanwhile, the family’s lawyer, Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), confirmed receipt of the court documents.
He also acknowledged the High Court order.
However, he disclosed that the family had already filed four witness statements.
These statements include one from Dr. Ivara Esege.
In addition, medical experts from Nigeria and the United States submitted reports.
The experts are expected to testify when proceedings resume.
Family Pushes for Transparency
Despite the stay order, Pinheiro urged the Coroner’s Court to fix a specific date.
He opposed an indefinite adjournment.
According to him, a definite date would allow parties to update the court.
Furthermore, he stressed the need for openness in the process.
“He who is innocent does not fear an open inquest,” he said.
He added that truth should never be hidden.
Therefore, the fact-finding exercise should continue when legally possible.
Other Parties Back Fixed Adjournment
Similarly, counsel for Atlantis Paediatric Hospital supported the request.
He also favoured a definite adjournment date.
Following submissions from all parties, the Coroner fixed October 8, 2026.
The court will receive updates on the High Court proceedings on that date.
Witness Testimony Delayed
Consequently, no witness testified during Wednesday’s session.
The court did not hear any evidence.
In addition, expert witnesses could not present their findings.
Their reports remain before the Coroner’s Court.
For now, attention has shifted to the Lagos State High Court.
Its decision will determine the next stage of the inquest.
Until then, the investigation remains on hold.
