Abuja is reeling from renewed fears over commuter safety after the killing of Princess Mediatrix Chigbo Esq, a senior lawyer, former Treasurer of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Abuja Branch, and a prominent member of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA, Nigeria), Abuja.
Her lifeless body was discovered early this week by a commuter along the Kubwa Expressway, near the Dawaki area opposite Gwarimpa Estate, in what authorities believe may be another deadly attack by suspected “one chance” robbers—criminals notorious for targeting unsuspecting passengers across the Federal Capital Territory.
Preliminary findings indicate that Mediatrix may have been assaulted during a violent encounter. A handbag believed to belong to her was reportedly found some distance from where her body lay, reinforcing suspicions that she may have been robbed and forced out of a moving vehicle.
The killing has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s legal community, with colleagues describing her death as devastating and deeply symbolic of the country’s worsening security challenges. In a statement confirming her death, Sir Chidi Udekwe, President of her professional association, said the news was received “with a heavy heart and profound disbelief.”
“I am at the Kubwa General Hospital Morgue, where I was faced with the devastating reality of sighting her lifeless body,” he said. “To see such a vibrant, promising soul stilled in such a manner is a pain that words cannot adequately capture.”
Colleagues described Mediatrix as more than a respected legal professional—calling her a mentor, advocate, and a steady voice for justice and women’s rights. Her death, they said, leaves a void not only within the legal profession but also in the communities she served.
“This is a catastrophic blow to us,” Udekwe added. “Instead of celebrating new beginnings, we are forced to confront the cold finality of death.” The Nigeria Police Force, Dawaki Division, has taken custody of her body and confirmed that investigations are underway. Authorities have appealed to members of the public who may have information related to the incident to come forward, as formal identification and inquiries continue.
Her killing has reignited public outrage over persistent security threats along Abuja’s highways, particularly the menace of “one chance” operators, whose attacks have continued despite repeated assurances from authorities.
As tributes pour in, many within the legal profession are calling for urgent action, warning that Mediatrix’s death is not an isolated tragedy but part of a broader crisis that places ordinary commuters—and even prominent professionals—at constant risk. For now, a grieving legal community mourns a life described as marked by grace, service, and promise—cut short on a road meant to lead home.
