The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, have expressed outrage and sorrow over the killing of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a 29-year-old news anchor, reporter, and producer with ARISE News Channel, who was murdered during an armed robbery at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025.
Fondly known as “Sommie,” Maduagwu was also a trained lawyer.
She was described by colleagues as a brilliant and passionate broadcaster who brought intellect, warmth, and integrity to her work.
To many young journalists, she was a source of inspiration and encouragement in the profession.
In a condolence message signed by NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union said her tragic passing was not only a painful loss to her family and colleagues at ARISE News but also to journalism and the nation as a whole.
“At only 29 years of age, Sommie was a brilliant, passionate, and dedicated professional who gave her all to her work. Her death is devastating to the journalism profession and to our country,” the statement read.
The NUJ condemned the killing as a heinous crime and urged the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to launch a thorough and transparent investigation, insisting that the perpetrators must be swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.
“Nigerians deserve to live and work in safety, and the government must prioritise the protection of lives and property as a matter of urgent responsibility,” Abdullahi said.
On behalf of journalists across the country, the NUJ extended heartfelt condolences to Maduagwu’s parents, siblings, extended family, colleagues at ARISE News, and her friends, praying that Almighty God grants them the strength to bear the irreparable loss and that her soul rests in peace.
In a similar vein, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike vowed that Maduagwu’s killers would not escape justice.
In a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Mr. Lere Olayinka, Wike described the broadcaster’s death as “tragic and painful,” noting that it was not only a loss to ARISE News but also to the Nigerian media industry and the entire nation.
“I feel pained that such a wonderful soul could be cut down in her prime. It is sad,” Wike said.
He disclosed that according to a report by the FCT Administration Mandate Secretary on Health, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, Maduagwu was brought to the Maitama General Hospital dead at about 4:30 a.m. on Monday.
The minister assured that a preliminary medical report would be handed over to the police to aid their investigation and pledged that every effort would be made to unravel the circumstances of her death.
He also called for continuous prayers and support for Maduagwu’s family, colleagues, and the ARISE News Chairman, Prince Nduka Obaigbena.
“It is my prayer that God in His infinite mercies will accept her soul and give her family members, friends, and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Wike added.
The shocking murder of the young broadcaster has continued to draw widespread condemnation, reigniting calls for stronger security measures in Abuja and across the country.
