The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is deeply saddened by the untimely death of our dear colleague, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, Esq. Words fail to capture the depth of our pain at the loss of such a vibrant, brilliant, and promising young woman. Reports indicate that Somtochukwu lost her life while trying to avoid an armed robbery attack in the supposed safety of her home in Katampe, Abuja. That such a cruel and senseless act could occur, leaving her fatally wounded in her own residence, is both devastating and unacceptable.
Somtochukwu was a shining star in both the legal and media worlds. Her life, full of promise, has been cut short in a most painful and unjust way. Her death is not only a huge loss to her family, the legal community, and the media industry, but to the entire nation.
While we condemn in the strongest terms the barbaric crime that led to her untimely death, we are equally disturbed by the reports of medical negligence that followed. The suggestion that her chances of survival may have been compromised by the failure of a hospital to respond with the urgency and professionalism required is shocking and calls for urgent accountability within our healthcare system. It is unacceptable that in addition to battling rising insecurity, Nigerians must also contend with a healthcare delivery system that too often fails them in their hour of greatest need.
This tragedy underscores two urgent national priorities: securing our people from violent crime and fixing a healthcare system that must be responsive, humane, and life-saving. The NBA therefore demands a thorough investigation not only into the circumstances of her death, but also into the handling of her case by the medical institution involved. Both justice for her death and accountability for any negligence that worsened this tragedy are non-negotiable.
The NBA reiterates its call, made only days ago, on the Federal Government to remember that the first duty of leadership is the protection of lives and property. Nigerians deserve to live without fear, and they deserve to trust that when tragedy strikes, the healthcare system will fight for their survival, not fail them.
Our hearts and prayers are with the family of Somtochukwu, the management and staff of ARISE News, and the entire legal profession. May God comfort them in this difficult time and grant Somtochukwu eternal rest.
Nigerians must not continue to live in fear in their own country, nor should they be left to die because of systemic failures that can and must be corrected.
Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
President, Nigerian Bar Association
