Court orders review of inquest into Nkanu Adichie-Esege's death

A Lagos High Court has ordered a temporary suspension of the coroner's inquest into the death of 21-month-old Nkanu Adichie-Esege, pending a judicial review. The court's decision stems from significant questions raised about the inquest's procedural fairness and legal basis.

The core of the review will examine whether the coroner's court had the proper jurisdiction to proceed, particularly given that Nkanu's body was cremated before the inquest commenced. Concerns have also been voiced regarding the absence of a post-mortem examination, which is often considered crucial for determining the cause of death in such investigations.

Nkanu, the young son of acclaimed author Chimamanda Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege, passed away in January 2026. His death led to calls for an official inquiry, resulting in the opening of a coroner's inquest at the Yaba Magistrate Court in February 2026. The proceedings have since been marked by several delays and disputes over procedure.

The inquest initially convened on February 25, reconvened on April 14, and briefly resumed on May 5. It was suspended to allow for discussions involving the Lagos State Attorney-General and the legal representatives of the involved parties. The Lagos High Court acknowledged that the application for review presented substantial issues concerning procedure and fairness that warrant thorough consideration. All coroner's court proceedings remain halted until the substantive application is heard and decided.