By JKNewsMedia
FATAL ARMED robbery in the Katampe district of Abuja has claimed the life of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor and producer with Arise Television (AriseTV News).
In a statement released by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi on behalf of the management of Arise Television, it was confirmed that the journalist, popularly known as Sommie, was killed during the attack in the early hours of Monday in her residence.
Police authorities have since commenced investigations into the incident, the release noted.
The management of the news organisation said Maduagwu, aged 29, was fatally injured in the course of the robbery.
The statement also described her passing as a profound loss to the newsroom and the wider media community.
“Sommie tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, following an armed robbery incident in her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police,” the statement read.
The channel highlighted her contributions as a broadcaster and her impact on both colleagues and audiences. “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,” Usman-Ajayi said in the release.
The statement further conveyed the station’s condolences to her family.
“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.”
Maduagwu, who was born on 26 December 1995, combined her media career with a legal background.
She studied law and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2017.
Before moving into television journalism, she had built a professional foundation that enriched her on-screen delivery and analysis with intellectual depth and precision.
Her career at Arise News established her as a leading young broadcaster in Nigeria.
She anchored, reported and produced for the network, earning recognition for her clarity, eloquence and professionalism.
The organisation noted that she built a reputation for dedication to factual reporting and her ability to connect with audiences through impactful storytelling.
Colleagues referred to her affectionately as Sommie, recalling her energy and contributions to newsroom operations.
According to the statement issued by Arise Television, she played a vital role in shaping programming and was admired as both a team member and a mentor to younger colleagues.
Tributes also highlighted her achievements beyond journalism. Maduagwu had earlier distinguished herself in pageantry, holding the title of Miss Tourism World Nigeria.
This role, combined with her subsequent legal and media pursuits, underscored a career that blended intellect, professionalism and public engagement.
The statement notes that the tragic event has drawn attention to the wider issue of security in Abuja noting that her professional and personal legacy would endure, both within Arise Television and among those who knew her.
