Arise TV Anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu Killed in Abuja Robbery

 Nigeria’s media industry has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of Somtochukwu Christelle “Sommie” Maduagwu, a news anchor, reporter, and producer with ARISE News/Arise TV. She was killed in the early hours of Monday during an armed robbery attack at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja.

According to reports, armed robbers stormed the residential block where Maduagwu lived and fatally attacked her during the raid. ARISE News, in an official statement signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi on behalf of management, confirmed her passing and described the event as a tragic loss. The company disclosed that the case is being actively investigated by the Nigeria Police Force.

The FCT Police Command confirmed awareness of the incident and said investigations have begun. Tactical units, including the Special Anti-Robbery Squad and forensic teams, have reportedly been deployed to track down the suspects. Eyewitnesses from the neighborhood recounted the tense moments of the attack, which has raised fresh concerns about insecurity even within Abuja, the nation’s capital.

Born on December 26, 1995, Maduagwu was only 29 years old at the time of her death. She was widely respected for her professionalism, charisma, and vibrant presence on air.

Beyond journalism, she was also a trained lawyer, having served as a legal executive with the International Dispute Resolution Institute (IDRI) and as a junior counsel in private legal practice before fully embracing a career in broadcast media.

Colleagues and mentors described her as a dedicated journalist, a bright personality, and a supportive team player whose contributions greatly enriched ARISE News programming.

Her death has once again sparked debate about rising insecurity in Nigeria’s cities, particularly in Abuja, which has witnessed a series of violent crimes in recent months. Many have called for stronger security measures, faster police response times, and accountability to prevent further loss of innocent lives.

Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s passing is a painful reminder of the fragility of life in a climate of insecurity. Though her career was tragically cut short, her work as a journalist and lawyer leaves a lasting mark on the media landscape and in the hearts of those who knew her.