Pelumi Olajengbesi, a practicing lawyer based in Abuja, has urged law enforcement agencies to pursue a comprehensive and effective prosecution of those arrested in connection with the murder of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a respected news anchor and producer at Arise Television.
In a statement released on Thursday, Olajengbesi praised the police for their prompt response in apprehending 12 suspects allegedly involved in the tragic incident. Nevertheless, he stressed that arresting the suspects is only the initial step, and that ensuring swift and decisive justice is crucial.
He remarked, “The police must not stop at detaining those implicated in Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s murder. It is essential that a thorough and expedited legal process follows to reinforce the principles of justice.”
Olajengbesi also highlighted, “Given that the suspects have reportedly confessed, there should be no room for prolonged investigations or delays. The authorities should promptly file charges and present the accused before the judiciary.”
He further expressed, “The tragic loss of the Arise TV journalist is profoundly heartbreaking. Any postponement in prosecuting the culprits only deepens the pain of the bereaved family and erodes public trust in the justice system.”
“Taking swift and comprehensive legal measures against those responsible will send a clear warning to offenders at all levels that criminal acts will be met with firm repercussions,” Olajengbesi concluded.
The police confirmed on Thursday that the 12 detainees have admitted their involvement in the crime.
On September 29, a group of about 15 armed intruders stormed Unique Apartments, a four-story residential building with 16 units, situated in the Katampe neighborhood of the city.
During the violent robbery, Somtochukwu, affectionately called Sommie, and the building’s security guard tragically lost their lives.