The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of Arise News correspondent, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who died after jumping from the top floor of her apartment in Katampe during an armed robbery on Monday, September 29, 2025.
Earlier reports had linked her death to alleged negligence at Maitama General Hospital, but the police have clarified that Maduagwu sustained fatal injuries from the fall before being taken to the hospital.
Speaking in an interview with Arise News on Wednesday, FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, confirmed that officers found the journalist unconscious and immediately transported her to the hospital.
“Policemen arrived at the scene and found her unconscious. She was rushed to Maitama General Hospital, where doctors tried to revive her using CPR, but sadly, she didn’t survive,” Adewale stated.
He explained that the armed robbers invaded Unique Apartments, a three-storey twin building with 18 flats located in the Gishiri area of Katampe, under the Mabushi Divisional Area.
“Some unknown armed men broke into the apartment complex. Two private security guards were on duty. One of them, who attempted to resist the robbers, was shot,” the CP said.
Amid the chaos, Maduagwu, who lived on the top floor, reportedly jumped from the third floor in a panic.
“It was a tragic and unfortunate consequence of the terrifying situation,” Adewale said.
He also extended condolences to Maduagwu’s family, Arise News, and the wider journalism community.
“The FCT Command commiserates deeply with the family of Sommie, the Arise News family, and all Nigerians affected by this disturbing incident.”
Adewale further revealed that a special investigative team, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Investigation) and involving all tactical units, has been set up to track down the culprits.
“We are working with the leads we’ve received and are committed to ensuring justice is served. No stone will be left unturned.”
The Punch had earlier reported that Maduagwu died after a robbery attack at her residence. Arise News officially announced her death on Tuesday, September 30, initially attributing it to possible medical negligence.
The incident has triggered widespread outrage and renewed concerns over rising insecurity in the capital. The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and several journalist associations have condemned the attack and called for urgent reforms in both security and emergency healthcare response.
Prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have publicly mourned Maduagwu’s death and called for swift justice.
Advertisement
