Dare Babalola
Atlantis Pediatric Hospital has issued a response regarding the interim suspension of its Chief Medical Director, Atinuke Uwajeh, by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel.
The hospital stated that it retains confidence that its medical professionals acted in accordance with the parameters of their professional obligations.
This development follows an outcome of a panel established by the MDCN, which suspended the Medical Director of Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, Dr Tunde Majekodunmi, its anesthesiologist, Dr Titus Ogundare, and Atlantis CMD Uwajeh.
The suspension was based on findings of medical negligence in the treatment of 21-month-old Nkanu Adichie-Esege.
The panel is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Nkanu Esege, the 21-month-old son of Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, with a coroner’s inquest into the incident currently underway.
The hospital announced in a statement issued on Monday that it had received a letter dated February 25, 2026, and delivered on March 5, informing it of the panel’s decision to place its Chief Medical Director on interim suspension.
The management confirmed receiving the communication and expressed concerns about the development, stating it would consult relevant professional and regulatory bodies, according to the statement.
“As a healthcare institution dedicated to pediatric care, Atlantis Pediatric Hospital remains steadfast in its commitment to the highest standards of medical practice, patient safety and professional responsibility.
“We are confident that all our medical professionals exercised reasonable duty of care and judgment in the discharge of their duties and this will be established in due course,” the statement said.
The hospital explained that the matter is already before the Lagos State Coroner’s Court, which is investigating the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
According to the hospital, the ongoing court proceedings influenced its decision to limit public commentary on the matter.
“Due to the pendency of this matter before the court and out of respect for judicial integrity and process, our hospital will exercise restraint in making any public commentary on matters that are currently before a court of law,” the statement added.
Atlantis Pediatric Hospital said it would fully cooperate with the coroner’s inquest and any other lawful process aimed at establishing the facts surrounding the incident.
Management also expressed condolences to the Adichie-Esege family, describing the loss of their child as deeply painful.
Furthermore, the hospital assured patients, families, and stakeholders of its commitment to constructive engagement with relevant authorities, prioritising transparency and a thorough examination of the facts, all while upholding high standards of pediatric healthcare practice.
