•Late Arise TV anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu
Colleagues of late ARISE News correspondent, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, have expressed outrage over reports that the 29-year-old journalist was denied medical attention after sustaining injuries during a robbery attack at her Abuja residence.
During today’s edition of The Morning Show, ARISE anchors Ojy Okpe and Reuben Abati recounted details surrounding the tragic incident, describing it as a preventable death that highlights the dangers faced by journalists and the failures of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
According to Okpe, Maduagwu reportedly jumped from her home after learning that 14 armed robbers had invaded the building. She survived the fall but later died after allegedly being rejected by hospital staff.
“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.
“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,” Okpe said.
It was further revealed that Maduagwu and an aged security guard were rushed to Maitama District General Hospital, where they both died after allegedly being denied prompt treatment because hospital staff demanded identification documents before attending to them.
Dr Reuben Abati, also reacting to the revelation, condemned the hospital’s conduct, describing it as a violation of medical ethics and the law.
Abati said, “This is an issue of the law in Nigeria. Anybody who is a victim of an accident… should be treated immediately.
“But those who were taken to the hospital were refused treatment because staff were looking for identification. It is the duty of doctors and nurses to stay faithful to their oath, which is to save lives.”
He added, “I hope the hospital is properly identified, and sanctions where appropriate are applied to those on duty… Lives could have been saved.”
Abati also reflected on the risks faced by journalists, describing the profession as one that “can lead to a pathway of death.”
“This job that we do is a very dangerous one. It is unfortunate that a young woman has fallen,” he said.
Earlier, Maduagwu’s final post on X in August, just weeks before her death, had sparked emotional reactions online, where she wrote, “I pray from the depth of my heart that Nigeria never happens to me or anyone I care about.”
The message also shared by correspondent Okpe on the morning show has since resurfaced across social media following reports of her passing.
The management of ARISE News, in an earlier statement, described Maduagwu as “delectable, intelligent, and bold,” adding that her contributions to journalism and advocacy would not be forgotten.
“Through a blend of her legal dexterity and reportorial vigour, Sommie advocated for out-of-school children and campaigned energetically against sexual and gender-based violence,” the statement read.
Maduagwu, a lawyer and former beauty queen, joined ARISE in September 2024 after representing Nigeria at the Miss Tourism World Pageant in Quanzhou, China.
The FCT Police Command has confirmed that an investigation is ongoing into the robbery and the circumstances surrounding her death.
Her colleagues, viewers, and admirers have continued to pour tributes on social media, describing her as passionate, fearless, and full of promise.
“We are journalists. We have a duty. We are important to society,” Abati said.
“When Nigeria happens to us, it is a sad thing.”
