Nkanu, the son of acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege, passed away on January 7, 2026, after receiving treatment at Atlantis Hospital and undergoing medical procedures at Euracare.

Naija News reports that the Medical Director of Euracare, along with two other staff members, was suspended on Tuesday by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Investigation Panel.

In response, Euracare stated that during the investigation, matters protected by patient and institutional confidentiality appear to have been disclosed outside the appropriate channels.

In an official statement, the hospital said it conducted a thorough internal review of the clinical events from the start, in line with its clinical governance standards and best practices, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and ongoing cooperation with all inquiries.

Euracare expressed confidence in the professionalism and integrity of two of its clinical staff, Dr. Tosin Majekodunmi and Dr. Titus Ogundare, describing them as highly experienced professionals with years of providing quality patient care in Nigeria at standards comparable to leading global medical facilities.

The hospital stressed that all parties involved, including the institution and its staff, are entitled to a process that is rigorous, impartial, and respects the governing rules.

Euracare added that its management will formally raise these concerns through the appropriate legal and regulatory channels.

Merchant faces terrorism and murder-for-hire charges in a case brought by the U.S. Justice Department in 2024. The trial, which began last week, has drawn international attention due to its connection to highly sensitive geopolitical events.

According to court reports, Merchant testified that he did not join the alleged plot willingly or out of loyalty to Iran. He told jurors that his cooperation with the IRGC was driven by fear for his family in Tehran, rather than ideological motivation or personal intent.

Merchant said his Iranian handler never issued a direct order to kill a specific individual but mentioned three targets during discussions in Tehran: Trump, then-President Joe Biden, and former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, who had lost her bid for the 2024 GOP nomination. He told the court, “I did not want to do this so willingly,” a statement central to his coercion defence.

Prosecutors Reject Coercion Claim
The U.S. Justice Department quickly challenged Merchant’s claim. In a letter to the presiding judge on Tuesday, prosecutors said there was a “lack of evidentiary support for a true duress or coercion,” rejecting his account.

The government argued that Merchant actively recruited individuals in the U.S. for the plot, which prosecutors said was designed by the IRGC in retaliation for the U.S. drone strike that killed top Iranian commander General Qassem Soleimani in 2020 during Trump’s first term.

The IRGC wields vast influence in Iran, controlling military operations, economic interests, and intelligence networks extending beyond the country. Its involvement highlights the seriousness with which U.S. authorities are treating the case.

Trial Timing Amid U.S.-Iran Tensions
The trial began just days before Trump authorised joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran that reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other senior officials, sharply escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. Trump told ABC News, “I got him before he got me,” linking the alleged assassination plot to his decision to order the strikes.

Iran has consistently denied targeting Trump or any American officials and has not issued a new statement in response to the trial proceedings.

In a message shared on his account on Thursday, Saraki lauded Obasanjo’s enduring influence on Nigeria’s politics and national development, noting that his life mirrors the country’s historical journey.

“History is often written in the past tense, but the life of our dear former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, remains a living manuscript of the Nigerian story, still defying the odds and still demanding our attention,” Saraki wrote.

He prayed for the continued strength and wisdom of the former military Head of State and civilian President, emphasizing that Obasanjo’s voice remains vital during national challenges.

“And so, Baba, as you mark another year, we celebrate not just the length of your years but the relentless relevance of your voice. In times of national uncertainty, may your wisdom remain a trusted compass, and may your legendary wit remain as sharp as ever. Happy 89th Birthday, Your Excellency. May God grant you continued strength, sound health, and peace in the years ahead,” Saraki added.

Bukola Saraki’s tribute follows similar felicitations from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who hailed Obasanjo as an elder statesman whose contributions to Nigeria are enduring.

President Tinubu praised Obasanjo’s lasting impact on national development, noting his interventions through books, public commentary, and policy advocacy. He described the former president’s influence as “towering” and lauded the zeal and wisdom he brought to nation-building.

Reflecting on his health and longevity, Obasanjo expressed gratitude to God for keeping him alive and in good health at 89, dismissing critics who wished him ill. “God has assured me He has more for me to do on earth, and He has given me the wherewithal to do it. I dey kampe as usual,” he said, affirming his commitment to remain active as long as God wills.