By Pius Awunah
Arise News Channel has announced the death of its news anchor, reporter and producer, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.
Maduagwu, 29, was killed in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, during an armed robbery at her home in the Katampe area of Abuja.
Already,the police have reportedly commenced investigation into the incident.
The news channel described her as a vibrant voice on air, a professional lawyer, and a supportive friend.
In a statement by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi, on behalf of the management of Arise TV,it expressed shock and sadness, saying Maduagwu was a beloved member of the team.
It called for a speedy investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
She is survived by her parents, siblings, extended family and friends.
The statement reads in part:
“TRAGIC DEATH : SOMTOCHUKWU CHRISTELLE MADUAGWU.
“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 Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police.
“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”.
Meanwhile, the FCT Police Command has commenced a discreet investigation into the death.
According to a statement by the Command’s Spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, the Commissioner,Ajao Adewale,has commiserated with the family,friends and staff of Arise TV over the death and described the incident as a cruel and senseless act which has no place in a sane society.
The Commissioner assured that justice would be served in the matter as discreet and comprehensive investigation have commenced to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The police boss directed the deployment of intelligence and operational assets to identify, track, and apprehend those responsible for the heinous crime.
While assuring residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to public safety and the prevention of similar occurrences, the commissioner called on members of the public to support ongoing investigations by providing timely and useful information to the Police.
He charged all FCT residents to always ensure they raised prompt alarm in every suspicious situation with a view to denying criminal elements in the society,the opportunity to carry out their evil plans.
