ABUJA: Shock and grief have engulfed Nigeria following the tragic killing of ARISE Television news anchor, Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu, during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday. Maduagwu, 29, was reportedly alone in her apartment when the robbers struck.
In a statement signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi, ARISE News described her as a cherished member of the ARISE family and a vibrant voice who deeply connected with viewers.
The network added: Her voice is now silent, but her spirit, passion, and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory. We remain in shock and call for a thorough investigation and swift prosecution of the culprits.
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Ajao Adewale, has directed tactical units including the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, the Special Intelligence Unit, and forensic experts to take over the investigation.
Police sources said that Maduagwu had no immediate family in Abuja as her parents live in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
FCT Police spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, confirmed that a discreet but comprehensive investigation was underway, assuring the public that the killers would be apprehended.
Fondly called Sommie by colleagues, Maduagwu was not only a rising star in broadcasting but also a trained lawyer.
She joined ARISE News as a young, energetic anchor whose sharp interviews and warm presentation style quickly earned her respect across the industry.
Colleagues describe her as professional, supportive, and passionate about giving a voice to the voiceless.
The news of her death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from across the country.
-
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a message released through his Special Adviser on Media, described the killing as a painful reminder of the urgent need to redouble efforts in tackling violent crime. He extended condolences to the Maduagwu family and ARISE News management.
-
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said: Somtochukwu represented the bright future of Nigerian journalism. Her loss is a tragedy not only to her family and colleagues but to the nation.
-
Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi lamented her death, calling it a sad commentary on the state of insecurity that continues to claim our best and brightest.
-
Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, also described the killing as a regrettable and painful loss to the nation’s media landscape.
-
From the media industry, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman of ARISE News, hailed Maduagwu as a shining light whose brilliance illuminated our screens and whose dedication inspired her colleagues.
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for a forensic investigation, while civil society groups have urged authorities to prioritize journalist safety in Abuja and across the country.
As investigations continue, tributes are pouring in, with many remembering Somtochukwu Maduagwu for
