The Police Command in the Federal capital Territory (FCT) has ordered a comprehensive investigation into circumstances surrounding death of Arise Television News Anchor/Reporter, Ms Somtochukwu Maduagwu.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh said this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.
Adeh said the deceased tragically lost her life during an armed robbery incident at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja in the early hours of Monday.
She said the Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the FCT, Mr Ajao Adewale had described the incident as a cruel and senseless act that had no place in a sane society.
“To this end, the CP has ordered a discreet and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“He has further directed the deployment of intelligence and operational assets to identify, track, and apprehend those responsible for this heinous crime,” she said.
Adeh pledged that justice would be served in the matter and pledged the commitment of the command to public safety and the prevention of similar occurrences.
She enjoined the public to support ongoing investigations by providing timely and useful information to the police.
Adeh urged the public to always ensure they raised prompt alarm in every suspicious situation with a view to denying criminals the opportunity to carry out their evil plans.
She said the CP had extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late journalist.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has received with deep shock and sorrow the tragic death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, fondly known as Sommie, a news anchor, reporter, and producer with ARISE News Channel, who was killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, on Monday, 29th September 2025.
A statement signed by Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi,
National President of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), stated that at only 29 years of age, Sommie was a brilliant, passionate, and dedicated professional who brought intellect, warmth, and integrity to her work. She was also a lawyer, a supportive colleague, and a source of inspiration to many. Her passing is not just a painful loss to her family and colleagues at ARISE News, but to the entire journalism profession and our nation at large.
The NUJ condemned what it described as “this heinous act”, and called on the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation to ensure that the perpetrators were swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.
” Nigerians deserve to live and work in safety, and government must prioritise the security of lives and property as a matter of urgent responsibility.
On behalf of all journalists in Nigeria, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, colleagues at ARISE News, and her many friends.
“We pray that Almighty God grants them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, and that Sommie’s soul rests in perfect peace,” the statement concluded
