Tragedy struck the Nigerian media industry on Monday following the shocking death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a rising star and on-air personality with ARISE News Channel, who was killed during a robbery at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja.
Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie, was attacked in the early hours of Monday, September 29, by armed assailants who reportedly gained access to her home in what authorities have described as a targeted armed robbery.
She was 29.
ARISE News, where Maduagwu served as a news anchor, reporter, and producer, described her death as a devastating loss to the organisation and the journalism community.
A statement issued by the network and signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi on Monday evening expressed deep sorrow over the incident, calling for a swift and thorough investigation.
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 Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police.”
“Sommie was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice who engaged and connected with our viewers,” the statement read in part, adding “Her voice is now silent, but her spirit and legacy will remain with us.”
It added, “Beyond the airwaves, Sommie was a lawyer who was a professional and supportive colleague and a friend to many.”
Maduagwu, a trained lawyer, joined ARISE News as a reporter and quickly rose through the ranks, gaining public admiration for her sharp interviewing style, compelling storytelling, and grace on camera.
Colleagues described her as intelligent, passionate, and deeply committed to telling stories that matter.
Born on December 26, 1995, Somtochukwu was the eldest of three children. She held a law degree and was called to the Nigerian Bar before transitioning into journalism, where she found a platform to merge her legal insight with a passion for public discourse.
Her death has sparked outrage across media circles and among civil society organisations, with calls mounting for greater accountability and improved security in Nigeria’s capital city.
The management of ARISE News has extended condolences to her family and loved ones and is offering support during this difficult time.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time. We remain in shock and call for a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits”, the statement added.
