FCT Police confirm Arise News reporter Somtochukwu Maduagwu died after jumping from her flat during a robbery, not from hospital neglect

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has officially confirmed that Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a correspondent with Arise News, died after jumping from the top floor of her apartment building during an armed robbery, not due to medical negligence, as earlier reported.

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The incident occurred on Monday, September 29, 2025, at Unique Apartments, located in the Katampe area of Abuja.

Speaking in an interview with Arise News on Wednesday, FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, clarified that Maduagwu was found unconscious by officers responding to distress calls and was rushed to Maitama General Hospital, where doctors attempted resuscitation via CPR, but she was later confirmed dead.

“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,” said Adewale.

The Police Commissioner revealed that armed robbers invaded the three-storey twin building with 18 flats, around the Gishiri axis of Katampe, under the Mabushi Divisional Area.

Two private security guards were on duty at the time of the attack. One of them sustained a gunshot wound after bravely confronting the robbers.

In the chaos that followed, Somtochukwu — who lived on the top floor — reportedly jumped from the third storey in panic.

“The consequences were tragic and very unfortunate,” Adewale said.

The FCT Police have launched an intensive investigation, with a dedicated team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Investigation) and supported by tactical units.

“No stone will be left unturned until the perpetrators are brought to justice,” the Commissioner assured.

News of Maduagwu’s death triggered widespread grief and condemnation:

• Arise News announced her death on Tuesday, 30 September.
•  The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and press unions have condemned both the rising insecurity and reports of alleged medical negligence.
• President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos are among those who have expressed condolences and called for swift justice.

This incident highlights the growing concern over security in residential areas and emergency medical response efficiency in Nigeria’s capital.

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As investigations continue, calls for improved security and accountability grow louder from both the media and public.