Fury has trailed the death of 29-year-old ARISE News correspondent, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, after revelations that she died not from gunshot wounds, as earlier reported, but after being refused emergency treatment at a government hospital—despite surviving a desperate leap to escape armed robbers in Abuja.
Details shared on ARISE’s The Morning Show revealed that Maduagwu jumped from her apartment in Katampe when she learned that armed robbers had invaded her building. Though injured, she survived the fall, only to be allegedly turned away at Maitama District General Hospital, where she and an injured security guard were denied care.
“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,” anchor Ojy Okpe said. “She was taken to the hospital, but she was rejected. This really is a tragic incident. Sommie’s life could have been saved, but the hospital refused to treat her.”
Co-anchor Dr. Reuben Abati condemned the hospital’s conduct, describing it as a violation of 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.”
Her death has cast a haunting light on her final social media post from August, now viral, where she wrote: “I pray from the depth of my heart that Nigeria never happens to me or anyone I care about.”
ARISE management described Maduagwu—also a lawyer and former beauty queen—as “delectable, intelligent, and bold.” The FCT Police Command confirmed it is investigating both the robbery and the circumstances of her death.
Reflecting on the dangers faced by journalists, Abati added: “We are journalists. We have a duty. We are important to society. When Nigeria happens to us, it is a sad thing.”