Atlantis Paediatric Hospital has expressed reservations over certain aspects of the findings contained in the interim report of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) regarding its handling of the late son of author Chimamanda Adichie.

The hospital disclosed its position in a statement issued by its management and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday.

NAN reports that the MDCN had established a prima facie case of medical negligence and professional misconduct in connection with the death of Master Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the 21-month-old son of acclaimed author Chimamanda Adichie.

The findings followed an investigation initiated after a formal complaint was lodged with the Council in January.

Medical practitioners from Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital and Atlantis Paediatric Hospital responded to the complaint by submitting affidavits and presenting oral testimony before the MDCN Investigative Panel.

In its statement, Atlantis Paediatric Hospital confirmed receiving a letter dated Feb. 25 conveying the decisions of the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel (MDPIP), which it said was delivered in March.

The hospital management stated that the letter communicated an interim suspension of the facility’s Chief Medical Director in connection with the case.

However, the hospital reaffirmed its confidence in the professionalism of its medical team and the quality of care provided at the facility.

“We have reviewed the communication from the MDCN and intend to engage appropriate professional and regulatory bodies regarding issues arising from the panel’s findings,” the statement read.

The hospital explained that it would refrain from extensive public commentary because the case is already before the Lagos State Coroner’s Court.

It added that it would present a full explanation of its role during proceedings before the court, which is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

“Our decision is consequent upon realising that the matter is already before the Coroner’s Court of Lagos State, which is conducting an ongoing inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of a patient.

“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 said.

Atlantis Paediatric Hospital emphasised that it remains fully committed to cooperating with the coroner’s inquest and any lawful investigation aimed at establishing the facts of the incident.

The hospital also extended condolences to the bereaved family.

“Our thoughts and sincere sympathies remain with the Adichie-Esege family following the sad loss of their child.

“The loss of a child is an immeasurably painful experience, and we extend our empathy to the family at this very difficult time,” the management stated.

The hospital thanked patients, families, and stakeholders for their understanding, reiterating its commitment to providing healthcare in accordance with the highest standards of paediatric medical practice.