The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of an Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, describing her passing as tragic and painful.
Maduagwu, fondly called Sommie, lost her life on Monday after jumping from the balcony of her residence in Katampe, in the Federal Capital Territory, while attempting to escape suspected armed robbers.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the minister said the incident was not only a loss to the Arise News family but also to the Nigerian media and the nation at large.
“I feel pained that such a wonderful soul could be cut down in its prime. It is sad,” Wike said, while praying for the repose of the journalist’s soul.
The minister assured that security agencies would thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding her death and bring those responsible to justice.
“The Police will unravel the circumstances surrounding her death and bring those responsible to justice,” the statement read in part.
According to the statement, the Federal Capital Territory Administration Mandate Secretary on Health, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, said Maduagwu was brought to the Maitama General Hospital dead at about 4:30 a.m. on Monday.
The statement said she confirmed that a preliminary medical report would be made available to the police to aid their investigation, adding that all efforts will be made to unravel the circumstances surrounding her death.
Wike also extended his condolences to the management and staff of Arise News, particularly the Chairman, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, as well as the family and friends of the deceased.
“It is my prayer that God in His infinite mercies will accept her soul and give her family members, friends and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the minister added.
The PUNCH
