By Society Assistant Editor
Ninolowo Gbamboye
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has provided fresh details on the tragic death of Arise News correspondent Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who lost her life during an armed robbery at her Katampe residence in Abuja on Monday, September 29, 2025.
Contrary to initial reports attributing her death to alleged medical negligence, FCT Commissioner of Police Ajao Adewale confirmed that Maduagwu died after jumping from the top floor of her apartment in a desperate bid to escape the attackers.
In an interview on Wednesday, Adewale explained that responding officers found the journalist unconscious at the scene and rushed her to Maitama General Hospital.
“Policemen moved to the scene and found her lying unconscious. She was immediately taken to Maitama General Hospital, where doctors tried to resuscitate her using CPR, but sadly she could not make it,” he said.
The commissioner revealed that the attack occurred at Unique Apartments, a three-story twin building with 18 flats in the Gishiri area of Katampe. Armed robbers stormed the premises late Monday night, injuring one of the private security guards on duty who tried to resist them.
“In the panic that followed, Sommie, who lived on the top floor, jumped down from the third storey. The consequences were tragic and very unfortunate,” Adewale added, offering condolences to her family and colleagues at Arise News.
He assured the public that a special investigation team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Investigation) has been assembled to track down the perpetrators. “No stone will be left unturned until the attackers are brought to justice,” he pledged.
The journalist’s death has sparked widespread outrage and grief across the country. The Nigerian Guild of Editors, media professionals, and several prominent figures — including President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu — have condemned the incident, calling for swift action to address rising insecurity and to deliver justice for Maduagwu.
