Political leaders, government officials, and institutions have expressed shock over the death of Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was killed during a violent robbery in Abuja on September 29.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the killing as heartbreaking. “I wish to express my deepest condolences to the family of Ms Somtochukwu Maduagwu, an Arise TV newscaster who was killed in an armed robbery attack in Abuja. My condolences also go to the management and staff of @ARISEtv. It is my prayer that the family, friends and colleagues be comforted by this loss at such a very young age,” he said.
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, also paid tribute, calling Maduagwu “one of the shining stars that our dear State bequeathed to Nigeria and the world.” He described her as “an embodiment of kindness, humility, brilliance, resilience, and hope of a brighter future for Nigerian youths.” Fubara added, “Her voice on ARISE News Television was an inspiration to millions, her passion for justice reflected in her legal mind; and her humility and persistence while probing for the truth, a latent pointer to her professionalism.”
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State said her death was “a big shock considering the way she was killed but we take solace in the Almighty God that she lived a fulfilled life and made positive impact in the media industry.” He commiserated with her family, colleagues, and the Chairman of Arise News, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, in his message, urged justice for her death. “We stand full square for her justice, and therefore call for a distinctive trail of those who circumstantially caused this calamity so as to bring them to justice,” he said.
Tony Elumelu, Chairman of UBA and founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, also expressed sympathy, calling her death “a painful experience, not only for her family but also for your entire organisation.”
Other condolence messages came from Rivers State elders, UN Women Nigeria, and former Attorney-General of the Federation, Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, who described her as “a valued anchor whose dedication and professionalism touched many.”
The tragic death of the 29-year-old journalist has been described as an irreplaceable loss to her family, Arise News, Rivers State, and Nigeria’s media industry at large. Tributes from across the country reflect her impact as a lawyer, broadcaster, and voice for justice whose career, colleagues said, embodied excellence and promise cut short too soon.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
Follow us on:
