The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has arraigned 11 suspects in connection with the killing of ARISE News Channel anchor, Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie, and a security guard, Mr Barnabas Danlami.
The suspects were brought before a court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, over the robbery attack that claimed the lives of the victims on September 29, 2025, at their residence in Unique Apartments, Katampe Extension, Mabushi District, Abuja.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the FCT Command, SP Josephine Adeh, the defendants were identified as Shamsu Hassan, Sani Sirajo, Hassan Isah, Abubakar Alkamu, Abdulsalam Saleh, Suleiman Badamasi, Zaharadeen Mohammed, Musa Umar (alias “Small”), Mashkur Jamil, Suleiman Sani and Abubakar Usman.
According to the police, the suspects are facing a nine-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, armed robbery and murder.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter until February 2026 for further hearing.
Meanwhile, the FCT Police Command has urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, persons or objects to security agencies. Members of the public were advised to make use of the Command’s emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, or the Complaint Response Unit on 08107314192.
ARISE News, while announcing Maduagwu’s death, described the 29-year-old anchor as a cherished member of its newsroom and a vibrant broadcaster who connected deeply with viewers.
Beyond broadcasting, she was also a lawyer, remembered as a professional, supportive colleague and a friend to many.
