By Leadership.ng
Abuja — Grief and outrage have engulfed Nigeria’s media and civil society following the tragic death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, affectionately called Sommie, a rising star at ARISE News Channel who was killed in an armed robbery at her residence in Katampe District, Abuja, in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025.
The 29-year-old broadcaster, described as “brilliant, passionate, and fearless,” was a lawyer, news anchor, reporter, and producer whose promising career was cut short by senseless violence.
Confirming the development, the management of ARISE News said the Nigeria Police Force has launched a manhunt for the assailants. “We call for a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits,” ARISE’s spokesperson, Hadiza Usman-Ajayi, said in a statement.
Police sources disclosed that detectives are reviewing CCTV footage, tracking stolen items, and interrogating possible witnesses as part of the ongoing probe.
A Media Star Silenced
Colleagues at ARISE News were visibly shaken. A senior anchor who worked closely with Sommie described her as “a natural storyteller with a voice that connected instantly with the people.”
Another colleague, fighting back tears, said: “She was more than a journalist — she was family. Losing her feels like losing a part of our newsroom.”
Tributes have poured in from across Nigeria’s media and beyond:
Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in a statement condemned the killing as “a painful reminder of the growing insecurity plaguing the nation,” calling for urgent reforms to protect citizens, especially journalists.
Kadaria Ahmed, veteran journalist and media entrepreneur, wrote: “Sommie was the future of broadcast journalism. Her death is a national tragedy.”
On social media, prominent voices such as Chude Jideonwo and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala described her as “an inspiration” and “a symbol of youthful brilliance.”
Civil society groups have urged the Federal Government to act decisively. Human rights activist, Aisha Yesufu, tweeted: “A young woman with so much promise gunned down in her own home. Nigeria cannot continue like this. Justice must not only be done but be seen to be done.”
For viewers who tuned in to ARISE News daily, Sommie’s presence was magnetic. She was known for her sharp analysis, calm delivery, and ability to humanise the headlines.
Her death is not only a blow to her family and colleagues but also a stark reminder of the insecurity that shadows life in Nigeria’s capital.
As the investigation unfolds, Sommie’s memory now stands as a rallying point — for justice, for safety, and for the protection of young voices dedicated to informing the nation.
PIONEER NEWS 