Colleagues of late ARISE News correspondent Somtochukwu Maduagwu are expressing fury over new reports that the 29-year-old journalist died after being denied emergency medical care, contradicting initial accounts that she was shot dead.
The tragic incident, now revealed to be a desperate escape from armed robbers, has ignited condemnation of Nigeria’s healthcare system and the dangers faced by journalists.
According to details shared on ARISE’s The Morning Show, Maduagwu jumped from her apartment in Abuja’s Katampe district upon learning that armed robbers had invaded her building. She survived the fall but was later pronounced dead after she and an injured security guard were allegedly refused treatment at Maitama District General Hospital.
“She jumped down from her home when she heard that 14 armed robbers had come to her house. She did not die on the spot,” said anchor Ojy Okpe. “She was taken to the hospital, but she was rejected. This really is a tragic, tragic incident. Sommie’s life could have been saved, but the hospital refused to treat her.”
Co-anchor Dr. Reuben Abati strongly condemned the hospital’s actions, calling them a violation of both medical ethics and Nigerian law. “It is the duty of doctors and nurses to stay faithful to their oath, which is to save lives,” Abati stated. “I hope the hospital is properly identified, and sanctions where appropriate are applied to those on duty.”
The news has cast a somber light on Maduagwu’s final social media post from August, which has since gone viral. She wrote, “I pray from the depth of my heart that Nigeria never happens to me or anyone I care about”—a sentiment her colleagues echoed in their grief.
ARISE News management remembered Maduagwu, a lawyer and former beauty queen, as “delectable, intelligent, and bold.” The FCT Police Command has confirmed an ongoing investigation into the robbery and the circumstances of her death.
Reflecting on the profession’s perils, Abati concluded, “We are journalists. We have a duty. We are important to society. When Nigeria happens to us, it is a sad thing.”