By Nigeria -Afriktimes has investigated multiple reports of medical negligence in Nigeria, highlighting incidents that have resulted in serious complications, permanent injuries, and deaths.
In January 2026, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie reported the death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi. The family had been in Lagos for the Christmas holidays when Nkanu fell ill. Initial symptoms resembling a minor cold quickly developed into a serious infection. The family was referred to Euracare Hospital, where Nkanu underwent tests and had a tube inserted to administer medication intravenously. Chimamanda stated that while she waited outside the theatre, she observed hospital staff moving quickly in and out. She reported that her son was not monitored after sedation, and complications developed following the administration of anaesthetic. Nkanu was placed on a ventilator in the ICU, suffered seizures, and experienced cardiac arrest. Plans were being made for a medical evacuation to Johns Hopkins Hospital in the United States, but Nkanu became unresponsive before transfer.
A high profile case in October 2022 involved former Big Brother Naija housemate Patrick Fakoya, known as Rico Swavey. Swavey was involved in a car accident and taken to Doren Specialist Hospital in Ajah, Lagos State, where he received initial treatment. A video circulated on social media showing Swavey unconscious in the hospital while individuals in the facility appeared to be recording him. The footage sparked public attention and questions about patient monitoring and treatment in hospitals. Authorities in Lagos commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the video. The hospital stated that its nurses did not record the video and that the footage was captured by a friend of the patient. Swavey later died a few days after admission.
More recently, a Lagos based architect, Alfred Ogene, filed a legal claim against R‑Jolad Hospital Nigeria Limited. Ogene was admitted on November 15, 2025, for treatment related to partial paralysis following a stroke. A urinary catheter was inserted to assist bladder function. Following the procedure, Ogene experienced complications including improper urine drainage and increasing pain. His legal team reported that these complications caused permanent damage to his urinary system and resulted in physical and psychological trauma. Ogene is seeking over ₦800 million in damages, covering medical expenses, loss of earnings, and related suffering.
Recent monitoring by Afriktimes shows that social media users complain about medical negligence in Nigeria, reporting issues such as inadequate patient monitoring, procedural complications, and errors in drug administration. These cases raise questions about medical care in Nigeria, including how patients are monitored after treatment or sedation, how medical emergencies are handled, and how preventable complications can be avoided.
