By Stephen Simon
A Lagos State High Court has adjourned proceedings in a suit challenging the coroner’s inquest into the death of Nkanu Nnamdi Adichie-Esege, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, until September 28, 2026.
The case stems from the child’s death in January at a Lagos hospital, an incident that prompted a coroner’s inquest to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
At the resumed hearing, counsel representing the hospital at the centre of the matter sought more time to respond to processes filed by other parties in the suit.
Following the application, the court granted the request and adjourned further proceedings to September 28 for the continuation of hearing.
The hospital is contesting the legality of the coroner’s inquest, arguing that issues relating to jurisdiction and procedure must first be determined before the inquiry can proceed.
Earlier, the High Court had granted leave for judicial review proceedings and ordered a temporary suspension of the coroner’s inquest pending the determination of the substantive application.
In compliance with the order, the Coroner’s Court suspended its proceedings and fixed a later date while awaiting the outcome of the legal challenge before the High Court.
Parties joined in the suit include the presiding coroner, officials of the Lagos State Government, the child’s parents and medical institutions connected to the case. The outcome of the September hearing is expected to determine whether the inquest will continue or remain on hold.
