Following the news of the death of a news anchor with the ARISE Television, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who was reportedly killed by suspected armed robbers at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, Nigerians have expressed displeasure about the insecurity ravaging the country.
It was gathered from a statement signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi on behalf of the management of the television station and shared on its X page on Monday that the robbery attack occurred in the early hours of Monday, and the matter had since been reported to the police.
The statement read, “It is with heavy hearts that the management and staff of the ARISE News Channel announce the passing 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, following an armed robbery incident in her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police.”
The statement described the 29-year-old lawyer and broadcaster as a cherished member of the organisation and demanded a probe into the incident.
The ARISE TV management also urged the police to ensure that her killers are brought to justice.
“Sommie, 29, was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers.
“Beyond the airwaves, Sommie was a lawyer who was a professional and supportive colleague and a friend to many.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time. Sommie’s 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 speedy investigation, apprehension, and prosecution of the culprits,” the statement added.
Following her death, netizens took to various social media platforms to express their condolences to her family while calling for improved security across the country.
On X, Bright Goku wrote, “I was deeply moved by this lady’s panel discussion with Rufai and other guests, consistently staying informed about Nigeria’s events through this news outlet. It’s distressing that her life ended in such a tragic manner.
“This serves as a stark reminder for the Nigerian government to take decisive action to address insecurity. If such incidents occur in the heart of Abuja, the situation in other states is even more concerning. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family. Sending love from Ghana.”
Another X user identified as Iyke tweeted, “A tragic and painful loss, Somtochukwu Maduagwu’s death at 29 is a reminder of Nigeria’s insecurity stealing bright futures. ARISE News honours her legacy, but beyond mourning, justice and accountability must follow. Her voice is silenced, yet her impact endures. I pray her soul finds eternal peace with the Lord.”
On Facebook, Bello Sani expressed concerns about the increasing violence in the Abuja metropolis.
Sani wrote, “May her soul rest in perfect peace, Amen! Gun violence in Abuja is becoming increasingly concerning despite security efforts to crack down on criminals in the city.”
Another Facebook user, Oyedele Oyedola, urged the police to thoroughly investigate her death.
Oyedola wrote, “The matter should be well investigated before coming to tell us about robbery. How many roads enter Katampe Hill, with the security operatives everywhere?”
On Instagram, @ms_bevlyn wrote, “Sommie. This is still so hard to believe. Good night, beautiful one. May the angels guide you home.”
Mayor_of_nsukka described the late Somtochukwu as a mentor to his relative, adding that her death would cause pain to her family.
“My mentor’s relative; this is so sad because the family is in so much pain. May the vengeance of the Lord plead its blood on the culprit,” Mayor_of_nsukka wrote.
When contacted for a reaction on Monday evening, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident.
She noted that an investigation had begun into the incident.
“We are aware, and we are investigating,” Adeh said in a telephone conversation with our correspondent.
Instances of armed robbers attacking residents in Abuja are not isolated incidents.
Credit: punchng.com
