TV presenter Somtochukwu Maduagwu, 29, dies in 3 storey plunge while trying to escape from armed robbers at her home
A BELOVED TV presenter has tragically plunged to her death during a horrifying armed robbery.
Somtochukwu “Sommie” Christelle Maduagwu, 29, died on Monday after she jumped from the third floor of her apartment building in Nigeria as armed robbers ransacked her home.
The popular TV host was discovered unconscious by police officers and rushed to hospital, but sadly died from her injuries.
A special investigation unit has been established to hunt down the armed robbers.
Following the devastating news of her death, Somtochukwu’s employer ARISE News released a statement.
“It is with heavy hearts that the management and staff of ARISE News announce the passing of our beloved colleague, news anchor, reporter and producer,” the statement read.
“She tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, following an armed robbery incident at her residence, which is currently under investigation by the police.
“She was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers,” the statement continued.
“Beyond the airwaves, she was a lawyer, a consummate professional and a supportive colleague. She was a friend to many.”
The network extended their condolences to Somtochukwu’s loved ones.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement said.
“Sommie’s voice may now be silent, but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory.”
Online, fans also expressed their grief and shock at her tragic death.
“May her precious soul rest in perfect peace,” one person wrote.
“Such a sweet, sweet girl. I pray she’s sleeping sweetly beside God,” said another.
“I pray her family receives the healing they need to bear this loss.”
Following her death, many claimed hospital negligence, police unprofessionalism, and systemic government failure among other factors were to blame for the tragic loss of Sommie.
Ajao Adewale, FCT Commissioner of Police, assured the public this was not the case.
“Regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident… some hoodlums, armed robbers, specifically gained access into Unique Apartment, where Sommie lives,” he said.
“It is a three-story twin building with 18 flats around the Gishiri axis of Katampe, under the Mabushi Divisional Area.
“At this point, two guards were on duty, security men.”
Adewale said one of the security guards sustained a gun shot would when he tried to challenge the armed robbers.
“Under these conditions, panic would have resulted from this kind of environment,” he continued.
“Sommie actually occupied an apartment on the topmost floor of the building.
“And out of fear, she jumped down from that third story, the top floor.”
“It’s so sad, so unfortunate,” he finished.
Adewale said Sommie had made a distressed phone call to police during the robbery.
“Police officers moved to the scene, what they could see was the unconscious body of Sommie on the floor,” he said.
“They picked her up there and then took her to Maitama General Hospital, where the doctors on duty tried as much as possible.
Sommie studied law in the UK before returning to Nigeria to take part in military service.
When she graduated, Sommie became a legal executive and later junior counsel.
She later worked for Arise news, covering legal issues like women’s rights and the impact of non-governmental organisations, as well as being a gender equality advocate.
What's Your Reaction?
Like
0
Dislike
0
Love
0
Funny
0
Angry
0
Sad
0
Wow
0
