Arise Anchors Decry Hospital Negligence in Journalist’s Death!

Arise Anchors Decry Hospital Negligence in Journalist’s Death!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

Abuja — Colleagues of late ARISE News correspondent Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu have condemned what they describe as “gross medical negligence”, following revelations that the 29‑year‑old was allegedly denied urgent care by a private hospital after sustaining gunshot injuries during a robbery attack at her Katampe residence in Abuja.

What Happened

• Maduagwu, also known as Sommie, was reportedly shot by robbers who broke into her home in the early hours of Monday, September 30.
• She was rushed to a nearby private hospital but was allegedly refused treatment on the grounds that her case was “too severe,” according to multiple reports.
• Eyewitnesses claim no attempt was made to stabilize her, and she was referred elsewhere. She died en route to a second facility.
• FCT Police have since launched an investigation into the incident.

Industry Response

• ARISE News anchors and staff have taken to airwaves and social media to express grief and outrage, calling on the Federal Government and Ministry of Health to probe hospitals that deny emergency treatment.
• “This is beyond criminal negligence — it’s a failure of humanity,” said a senior anchor during Tuesday’s broadcast.
• The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) issued a statement demanding accountability, calling the incident “deeply troubling and unacceptable.

Legal & Policy Watch

• Nigeria’s National Health Act (2014) mandates that healthcare providers must not refuse emergency care — doing so constitutes a criminal offense, punishable by fines or imprisonment.
• Human rights groups and civil society actors are now calling for stricter enforcement and oversight of emergency care protocols.

What to Watch

• Whether the hospital involved will be investigated or face disciplinary action by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
• Rising public pressure could drive national reforms in emergency medical response systems to ensure no lives are lost due to treatment denial.

Citations:

1. The Guardian Nigeria – guardian.ng/news/arise-journalists-mourn-colleague-denied-treatment-after-robbery
2. Sahara Reporters – saharareporters.com/2025/09/29/arise-tv-anchor-somtochukwu-dies-after-robbery-attack-hospital-allegedly-refuses-treatment
3. Punch Newspapers – punchng.com/nuj-demands-investigation-into-journalists-death
4. PM News Nigeria – pmnewsnigeria.com/2025/09/30/arise-news-anchor-somtochukwu-killed-in-robbery-attack

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Managing Editor of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

See author's posts