Colleagues of late ARISE News correspondent, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, have expressed outrage over reports that the 29-year-old journalist was denied medical attention after sustaining injuries during a robbery attack at her Abuja residence.
During Tuesday’s edition of The Morning Show, ARISE anchors Ojy Okpe and Reuben Abati recounted details surrounding the tragic incident, describing it as a preventable death that highlights the dangers faced by journalists and the failures of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
According to Okpe, Maduagwu reportedly jumped from her home after learning that 14 armed robbers had invaded the building. She survived the fall but later died after allegedly being rejected by hospital staff.
“She jumped down from her home when she heard that 14 armed robbers had come to her house. She did not die on the spot.
“She was taken to the hospital, but she was rejected. This really is a tragic, tragic incident. Sommie’s life could have been saved, but the hospital refused to treat her,” Okpe said.
It was further revealed that Maduagwu and an aged security guard were rushed to Maitama District General Hospital, where they both died after allegedly being denied prompt treatment because hospital staff demanded identification documents before attending to them.
Dr Reuben Abati, also reacting to the revelation, condemned the hospital’s conduct, describing it as a violation of medical ethics and the law.
Abati said, “This is an issue of the law in Nigeria. Anybody who is a victim of an accident… should be treated immediately.
“But those who were taken to the hospital were refused treatment because staff were looking for identification. It is the duty of doctors and nurses to stay faithful to their oath, which is to save lives.”
He added, “I hope the hospital is properly identified, and sanctions where appropriate are applied to those on duty… Lives could have been saved.
Abati also reflected on the risks faced by journalists, describing the profession as one that “can lead to a pathway of death.”
“This job that we do is a very dangerous one. It is unfortunate that a young woman has fallen,” he said.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everydayAdvertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
No comments
Post a Comment
Kindly drop a comment below.
(Comments are moderated. Clean comments will be approved immediately)
Advert Enquires - Reach out to us at NigerianEye@gmail.com