Court Halts Chimamanda's Son's Inquest Amid Lagos AG Intervention Row

A significant procedural dispute has emerged in the Coroner's Court over the inquest into the death of Master Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the 21-month-old son of renowned author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege. The court's proceedings were abruptly halted on Tuesday, not by a judicial decision based on evidence, but by an intervention from the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN).

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I find it very appalling that the Attorney-General of Lagos State, Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN), would take such steps without informing the court.

Magistrate Atinuke Adetunji, presiding over the inquest, did not mince words in expressing her displeasure. She lambasted the Attorney-General for attempting to direct the court's actions without proper formal communication, emphasizing the principle of separation of powers. Her ruling clearly stated that the court operates independently of the Ministry of Justice and that such directives are inappropriate. The magistrate has rightly referred the matter to the Chief Coroner for further guidance, refusing to set an adjournment date until directives are received.

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The court is not under the Ministry of Justice. The Attorney-General does not have the power, under the principle of separation of powers, to direct the court.

The situation was further complicated by conflicting communication regarding a meeting intended to resolve the matter. While counsel from the Attorney-General's office informed the court of a meeting scheduled for May 12, 2026, the deceased's parents' counsel revealed they had initially received notice for a meeting on Tuesday itself, only to be informed late Monday about the rescheduling. This lack of clear and timely communication has understandably frustrated the parties involved, particularly the parents who are eager for the proceedings to move forward.

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I will report to the Chief Coroner for further directives. I will not assign any adjournment date until I receive directives from the Chief Coroner.

This case highlights the delicate balance between judicial independence and executive influence. The intervention by the Attorney-General, while perhaps intended to facilitate a resolution, has instead created a procedural controversy. The focus now shifts to the Chief Coroner to provide clear directives and ensure that the inquest proceeds with due process and respect for the court's authority, allowing for a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the child's tragic death.

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I have been directed to inform the court that a meeting between the Attorney-General of Lagos State and all counsel appearing in this matter has been scheduled for May 12, 2026.