The ARISE News family is mourning the tragic loss of our beloved colleague, News Anchor, Reporter, and Producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.

Sommie tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, after an armed robbery incident at her residence in Katampe, Abuja. The police are currently investigating the crime.

After her passing was announced, tributes have poured in including from the Governor of Anambra State, Charles Chukwuma Soludo, and the Minister for Information, Mohammed Idris, among others.

In Kogi State, Barrister Onyesom Peace Udoka was kidnapped alongside her sister, Gift Onyesom, near Lokoja on Friday, September 26th. The reported kidnapping took place just four days after Peace was Called to the Bar in Abuja.

Her abductors are said to be demanding N40 Million Naira to release both victims.

The Nigerian Bar Association has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to swiftly secure the release of its member, describing the incident as “unacceptable and utterly condemnable”.

In Kwara State, residents of Ajase-Ipo and surrounding communities staged a massive protest, alleging that a recent surge in deadly attacks and bloodletting was orchestrated with the help of a mysterious helicopter.

The community, some of whom were seen fleeing in viral videos, accused security operatives of collusion and abandonment. The state government is now calling for increased military presence in the region.

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