ARISE TV Mourns Somtochukwu Maduagwu, Demand Justice

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

Nigeria’s media and political circles have been thrown into mourning following the death of ARISE TV reporter and producer, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who was killed during a suspected armed robbery attack in Abuja.

Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie, was attacked at her Katampe residence in the Federal Capital Territory on Monday, according to reports.

The tragic incident has drawn widespread condemnation and expressions of grief. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a condolence letter to ARISE News Chairman, Chief Nduka Obaigbena, described Maduagwu as “a vibrant and dedicated news anchor, consummate lawyer, and a model of professionalism whose work resonated with audiences across Nigeria and beyond.”

He added: “Ms Somtochukwu’s tragic death is a grievous loss not only to the ARISE News family but to the Nigerian media fraternity, and indeed the nation.”

Similarly, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, joined in paying tribute, describing the journalist’s death as a painful reminder of the insecurity faced by many Nigerians.

The killing of Maduagwu, a promising young journalist, has sparked fresh debate on the safety of media practitioners and the rising insecurity in the capital city. Colleagues and friends have flooded social media with tributes, remembering her as a passionate professional whose life was cut short in its prime.

Announcing Sommie’s death in a statement on its X handle on Monday, ARISE TV urged the police to ensure that her killers are brought to justice. The medium described the 29-year-old lawyer and broadcaster as a cherished member of the organisation and demanded a probe into the incident. “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,” the statement added.

Idris said he was saddened by the “heinous incident that cut down a promising young journalist in her prime,” adding that “Ms Somtochukwu’s tragic death is a grievous loss not only to the ARISE News family but to the Nigerian media fraternity, and indeed the nation.”