Tributes have continued to pour in following the killing of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a 29-year-old lawyer-turned-journalist and anchor with Arise News, who was shot dead during a robbery attack at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja in the early hours of Monday, 29 September 2025.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the tragic incident in a statement, describing it as “a cruel and senseless act that has no place in a sane society.” Commissioner of Police Ajao S. Adewale ordered “a discreet and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident,” and deployed intelligence assets to ensure the perpetrators are tracked and apprehended. He urged residents to provide “timely and useful information” to assist the investigation and pledged that “every effort will be made to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said in a message on behalf of his ministry and family: “We offer our sincere condolences to the families of Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu and the management and staff of Arise News Channel for this tragic loss. May God Almighty comfort you all at this difficult moment.”
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, also expressed his pain at the news, describing the late anchor’s death as “tragic and painful.” He assured that the Police would unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident, stressing that “the death of Somtochukwu was not only a loss to the Arise News family, but to the Nigerian media and the entire nation as a whole.”
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State mourned Somtochukwu as “a shining star whose light has been prematurely extinguished.” He said: “At just 29 years old, she had already distinguished herself as a lawyer-turned-News Anchor, Reporter, and Producer with Arise News Channel, where her vibrant voice and professional excellence connected with audiences across Nigeria and beyond.” Soludo called for a “thorough, swift, and transparent investigation” to ensure those responsible are “apprehended and brought to justice expeditiously.”
The Kogi State Government, in a statement signed by Commissioner Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described her as “a consummate professional who carried out her duties with passion, brilliance, and a deep sense of responsibility.” The government urged security agencies to ensure “the perpetrators of the crime are swiftly brought to justice.”
Senator Oluremi Tinubu lamented: “Her death is painful and quite unfortunate. She has been cut down in her prime. I condole with the chairman Arise News Media, Chief Nduka Obaigbena, her family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones. It is my hope and prayer that the perpetrators will be apprehended as soon as possible and brought to book.”
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, also expressed shock and sadness at the news. She said: “Deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu of @ARISEtv, her dedication, professionalism & warmth touched many. My heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues & the entire Arise News family. May her soul rest in peace & may justice prevail.”
Civil society groups also weighed in. ActionAid Nigeria recalled Somtochukwu’s contributions in amplifying their advocacy, stating: “Her professionalism and dedication will be fondly remembered. Our thoughts are with her family and the entire Arise TV team at this difficult time. Rest in Power Sommie.”
The Obidient Movement condemned what it called “the senseless killing” of a “dedicated Arise News anchor” and stressed that “this tragic event underscores the gross insecurity and brutal violence plaguing Nigeria, which has claimed too many innocent lives.” It demanded that government prioritise “the safety and security of all citizens, especially journalists and media professionals who risk their lives to report the truth.”
Similarly, the League of Anambra Journalists in Abuja (LAJA) described her as “a passionate voice for truth, justice, and accountability.” LAJA said: “Her tragic passing is not just a personal loss to her family, friends, and colleagues, but a huge blow to the Nigerian media fraternity and the nation at large. Anything less than justice would be an affront to the ideals of justice and human dignity.”
International and national figures, journalists, and advocacy groups have continued to send condolence messages to the bereaved family, her colleagues, and the Arise News management.
Somtochukwu, fondly called “Sommie,” was a lawyer by training but pursued journalism as a passion. Colleagues described her as vibrant, industrious, and fearless, with a promising career tragically cut short.
She was brought dead to Maitama General Hospital at about 4:30am on Monday, according to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Mandate Secretary on Health, Dr Dolapo Fasawe. Preliminary medical reports have been forwarded to the police to aid their investigation.
The Nigerian media community has been plunged into mourning, with many calling for justice not only for Somtochukwu but also for countless victims of violent crimes.
As condolences continue to flood in, the consensus among leaders, colleagues, and civil society remains clear: justice must be swift, and Nigeria must do more to protect its journalists and citizens from violence.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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