Fresh details have emerged on how ARISE News anchor and producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, tragically lost her life during a robbery at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.
Diaspora Digital Media reported that the 29-year-old broadcaster, popularly known as Sommie, was killed in the early hours of Monday, September 29, after about 15 armed men invaded Unique Apartments, a 16-flat, four-storey building in the area.
According to ARISE News, security guards at the building confirmed that police were alerted while the attack was ongoing, but there was no immediate response. One of the guards was also injured during the incident.
Both the guard and Somtochukwu were rushed to Maitama District Hospital, where they later died.
Hospital delay alleged
Relatives of the late journalist alleged that hospital staff initially refused to treat her because no identification documents were presented at the time. They believe this delay contributed to her death.
Her colleague, Ojinika Okpe, speaking on The Morning Show, revealed that Somtochukwu had jumped from her apartment in a desperate attempt to escape the robbers.
“She jumped down from her home when she heard armed robbers were inside. She did not die on the spot.
She went to the hospital, and she was rejected. Her life could have been saved, but the hospital rejected her,” Okpe said.
ARISE News pays tribute
On Tuesday, ARISE News aired a special tribute programme titled “Sommie Maduagwu: A Life Cut Short,” where her colleagues recalled her brilliance, passion, and resilience.
Former presidential spokesperson and co-anchor of The Morning Show, Reuben Abati, called for a thorough probe into the role of medical staff at Maitama District Hospital.
He also urged security agencies to investigate the entire robbery incident to ensure accountability.
Who was Somtochukwu Maduagwu?
Born on December 26, 1995, Somtochukwu was a trained lawyer and a former beauty queen before moving into broadcast journalism.
Dhe quickly rose to prominence at ARISE News, earning a reputation for her professionalism and on-air presence.
Her untimely death has sparked widespread outrage and grief across Nigeria’s media industry, with many demanding better security and accountability in the nation’s capital.
