Arise News Channel has confirmed the death of one of its presenters, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was killed during an armed robbery at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.
In a statement signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi on behalf of the management, the station said Maduagwu, fondly called “Sommie,” died in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025. She was 29 years old.
The station described her as a vibrant voice, consummate professional, and supportive colleague who engaged deeply with viewers. It extended condolences to her family and called for a thorough investigation, swift arrest, and prosecution of the culprits.
Maduagwu, a lawyer, had previously worked as a political consultant with VIISUAS, as a legal executive and assistant company secretary at Layers3, with the International Dispute Resolution Institute (IDRI), and as Junior Counsel at Akinlolu Kehinde SAN & Co. She was also a strong advocate for women’s rights and NGOs.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, expressed grief over her passing. In a condolence letter to Arise News Chairman Nduka Obaigbena, he described the killing as a grievous loss to her family, colleagues, and the Nigerian media. Idris assured of a swift investigation into the incident and prayed for strength for her loved ones to bear the loss.
What you should know
Somtochukwu Maduagwu was a young journalist and lawyer who made her mark in law, consultancy, and broadcasting.
A passionate advocate for women’s rights, her sudden death in a robbery has shocked Nigeria’s media and public, underscoring persistent security challenges in the nation’s capital.
