KEY POINTS
- ARISE TV anchor killed in Abuja robbery.
- Police deploy special tactical teams to investigate.
- Colleagues mourn her as a vibrant journalist and lawyer.
ARISE Television anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu has been killed during a robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, a district in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja. She was 29.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, police and the broadcaster confirmed.
ARISE mourns a “vibrant voice”
In a statement, ARISE News said Maduagwu known affectionately as “Sommie”, as “a cherished member of the ARISE News family” whose energy and on-screen presence resonated with viewers.
“Her 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,” said Hadiza Usman-Ajayi, speaking on behalf of management.
Colleagues described her as not only a broadcaster but also a trained lawyer, mentor and supportive friend.
Police deploy tactical units
The Federal Capital Territory Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, has directed tactical squads including the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, the Special Intelligence Unit and forensic crime experts to lead the investigation.
FCT Police spokesperson Josephine Adeh confirmed the probe, noting that scene-of-crime officers had been deployed.
Police sources said Maduagwu lived alone in Katampe. While her parents reside in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Shock over journalist’s death
The killing has shocked Nigeria’s media community, where Maduagwu was seen as a rising star. Her death adds to growing concerns about violent crime in Abuja, where robberies and abductions have surged in recent months.
