The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has explained the circumstances that led to the death of Arise News presenter, Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu, during an armed robbery attack in Abuja.
Maduagwu, 29, died on Monday after hoodlums stormed her residence at Unique Apartment, Katampe, under Mabushi Division.
FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, speaking during a live interview on Arise News on Wednesday, said the journalist lost her life after jumping from the third floor of her apartment out of fear.
“Some hoodlums, armed robbers, specifically gained access into Unique Apartment, a three-storey twin building with 18 flats. Two private security men were on duty, but when one challenged the robbers, he was shot. In that panic, Sommie, who lived on the topmost floor, jumped down from the third floor. Sadly, the consequences are what we are seeing,” Adewale said.
He dismissed claims that negligence at Maitama General Hospital contributed to her death.
“A distress call was made to our control room. Police officers rushed to the scene and found Sommie unconscious on the floor. They immediately took her to Maitama General Hospital, where doctors tried to revive her with CPR. Unfortunately, she didn’t make it,” he added.
The police commissioner also announced that a special investigation team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Investigation, had been set up to track the armed robbers.
“The leads we are getting are already being worked on, and no stone will be left unturned until the perpetrators are brought to justice,” Adewale assured.
Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) also clarified reports of hospital negligence.
Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment, Dolapo Fasawe, said Maduagwu was already lifeless when she arrived at Maitama District Hospital around 4:30 a.m.
“She showed no vital signs on arrival, a finding which will be documented in the preliminary medical report to support police investigation,” Fasawe explained.
She added that a security guard injured during the robbery was also rushed to the hospital for treatment.
The death of the young journalist has sparked outrage and grief across Nigeria, with many demanding better security in the nation’s capital.
