New details have emerged regarding the tragic death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor and producer with Arise Television, who lost her life during a violent robbery at her apartment complex in Abuja.
The incident occurred around 3 a.m. on Monday when a group of about 15 armed men stormed Unique Apartments, a four-storey residential building with 16 flats located in the Katampe area of the city. According to Arise TV, security personnel at the premises confirmed that the police were alerted during the robbery, but no response was received.
One of the guards on duty was injured during the attack. Both the guard and Maduagwu—popularly known as “Sommie”, were taken to Maitama District Hospital, where they later died.
Family members alleged that hospital staff initially refused to treat the victims due to the absence of identification documents, a delay they believe may have cost their lives.
On Tuesday, Arise TV aired a special tribute titled “Sommie Maduagwu: A Life Cut Short”, during which her colleagues shared emotional memories.
Speaking during The Morning Show, co-presenter Ojinika Okpe revealed that Maduagwu had attempted to escape the attackers by jumping from her apartment.
“I reached out to our correspondent in Abuja, who provided more context about the incident,” Okpe said. “She jumped from her home after learning that around 14 armed robbers had entered the building.
“She survived the fall and made it to the hospital, but was reportedly denied treatment. Her life could have been saved.”
Also in his remarks on the show, Reuben Abati, a former presidential spokesperson and co-anchor at Arise TV, called for a thorough investigation into the role of medical personnel at Maitama District Hospital.
He urged security agencies to probe all aspects of the attack.
Born on December 26, 1995, Maduagwu was also a trained lawyer before transitioning into a career in broadcast journalism.
Credit: TheCable
