The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, Ajao Adewale (C.P.), has expressed deep condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Somtochukwu, the young woman who tragically lost her life during a robbery attack in Abuja.
Appearing on Arise TV’s morning show, Adewale described the incident as “a cruel and senseless act that has no place in a sane society.” He assured residents of Nigeria’s administrative capital that the police are intensifying efforts to guarantee safety and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Shedding light on the events, Adewale explained that two security personnel were on duty during the attack, one of whom was shot after confronting the armed robbers. The chaos, he said, likely led to Somtochukwu’s fatal fall.
“Our officers responded to the distress call and found her unconscious on the floor. She was immediately rushed to Maitama General Hospital, but all efforts by the medical team proved futile,” he recounted.
The commissioner acknowledged that the Girishi district, once a hotspot for crime, had seen improved security, and the police had planned a press briefing to highlight successes. “Unfortunately, this sad incident neutralized everything,” he said.
When asked about the timing of police response after receiving the distress call around 3:00 a.m., Adewale noted that terrain and incomplete street numbering in developing areas sometimes affect response speed. “The police got there 20 minutes after 3,” he clarified.
Residents alleged that up to eight estates in the district had been attacked, but Adewale countered that police records do not support such figures, insisting that Mabushi and surrounding areas enjoy significant police coverage.
Explaining how investigators concluded it was a robbery case, he said:
“It was a three-storey building of 18 flats, 16 of which were occupied. Phones were collected, cash and wallets were scattered on the floor. It’s obvious it was a robbery. Somtochukwu was not shot; she jumped out of panic, choosing it as the easiest escape route. It’s a clear case of armed robbery.”
The commissioner disclosed that a thorough investigation has been launched, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, with promising leads already being pursued. He assured Nigerians that the results will be made public once available.
Report by: Gborogen Rejoice | Edited by: Chris Odjomah