ARISE News Mourns Beloved Anchor Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, Killed in Abuja Robbery

The Nigerian media industry has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a rising star at ARISE News Channel, who was killed during an armed robbery in Abuja in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025.

Fondly called “Sommie” by colleagues and friends, the 29-year-old anchor, reporter and producer was attacked at her residence in the Katampe area of the city. Police have since launched an investigation into the incident.

Her death has sent shockwaves through the newsroom and beyond. At ARISE News, where she was a familiar face and commanding voice on screen, tributes poured in as colleagues struggled to come to terms with the devastating loss.

“Sommie was not just a colleague; she was family. She lit up the newsroom with her passion, warmth, and dedication. It is hard to imagine our screens without her presence,” a visibly shaken co-worker told reporters.

A trained lawyer, Somtochukwu combined her sharp intellect with a deep commitment to storytelling, quickly becoming one of the most admired young journalists on Nigerian television. Known for her calm poise and ability to connect with viewers, she was celebrated as much for her professional excellence as for her kindness and generosity off camera.

ARISE News, in an official statement signed by its management representative Hadiza Usman-Ajayi, described her passing as an “unbearable loss” and called for justice.

“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 read.

Friends and family have also expressed their grief, remembering her as a loyal daughter, a supportive sister, and a true friend who carried joy wherever she went.

Born on December 26, 1995, Somtochukwu would have turned 30 this Christmas. Instead, the media landscape mourns a life cut short, a brilliant career ended in its prime, and a future filled with promise stolen in an instant.

As the nation reels, her death has once again drawn attention to the rising spate of violent crimes in Abuja and the urgent call for stronger security measures to protect lives and livelihoods.

For many, however, the most enduring memory of Sommie will be her radiant smile, her eloquence, and the unwavering passion she brought to every broadcast.