Abuja, Nigeria
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has condemned the killing of news anchor Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu of ARISE News Television, who died following a robbery attack at her Abuja residence.
The President described the late journalist, known as “Sommie,” as “a promising professional whose life was cut short in a cruel and condemnable manner.”
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his condolences to Ms Maduagwu’s family, the management and staff of ARISE News, and the wider Nigerian media community, stating that the loss was felt by the entire nation.
President Tinubu also directed security and law enforcement agencies to immediately “conduct a quick and thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice without delay.”
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, assuring Nigerians that measures to tackle crime would continue to be strengthened.
Outrage Over Alleged Hospital Rejection
Meanwhile, the circumstances surrounding the 29-year-old journalist’s death are sparking outrage among her colleagues.
ARISE News Channel announced on Monday that Ms Maduagwu had died following a violent armed robbery at her home in the Katampe area of the capital.
However, during a broadcast on Tuesday, some of her colleagues suggested her death was “preventable” and resulted from an alleged denial of medical attention.
Anchor Ojy Okpe revealed that the late journalist reportedly jumped from her home after learning that armed robbers had invaded the building.
“She did not die on the spot,” Okpe stated, adding: “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.”
The incident has brought renewed focus both on the issue of armed crime in Abuja and the persistent problem of Nigerian hospitals allegedly refusing to treat victims of gunshot or injury without an initial police report or payment.
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