- Police confirm that Somtochukwu Maduagwu, an anchor at Arise TV, passed away following a robbery at her third-floor residence in Katampe, Abuja, when she jumped from the building.
- Gun-wielding thieves burst into the structure, shot a security officer, and caused chaos that prompted the 29-year-old reporter to try to flee.
- The FCT Police Command has established a dedicated investigative unit, promising to locate and prosecute those responsible.
The ARISE News Channel has formally confirmed the passing of 29-year-old news presenter, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was widely called Sommie.
As per the network, the tragic event occurred during a robbery at her home in Katampe, Abuja, early on Monday, 29 September.
In a statement authored by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi representing the management, ARISE News referred to Maduagwu as “a valued member of the ARISE News team and a dynamic voice that interacted and connected with our audience.”
Authorities disclose details of the incident
The Nigerian Police Force has offered more information regarding the events leading to her death.
In an interview with ARISE News on Tuesday, October 1, the Police Commissioner for the FCT Command, Ajao Adewale, mentioned that armed thieves entered “Unique Apartments,” a three-story building with 18 units located in Katampe, where the journalist lived.
“At that moment, two private security personnel were present. One of them gathered the bravery to face the aggressors but was shot. The ensuing panic caused disorder within the compound,” Adewale described.
He revealed that Somtochukwu, who resided on the upper level of the structure, tried to flee out of fear.
“Driven by fear, she leaped from the third floor. Unfortunately, the results of that fall are what we are facing now,” the Commissioner said.
Victim was taken to the hospital but declared dead
Law enforcement officers who arrived after the emergency call discovered the anchor lying unconscious on the floor and quickly transported her to Maitama General Hospital.
Medical staff present did their utmost, including performing CPR,” Adewale stated, “but regrettably, she didn’t survive.
Police initiate an inquiry and promise accountability
Adewale stated that the command had already established a specialized task force to locate the perpetrators.
“A dedicated investigative team, headed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, has been established. All available tactical resources are being utilized. Every possible effort will be made to bring those responsible for this terrible act to justice,” he assured.
The authorities asked the public to stay composed, vowing to provide updates on the inquiry at the appropriate time.
Nigerians respond to the passing of Somtochukwu
Earlier,the peoples.ngnoted that Nigerians on social media have shown anger and sorrow due to the killing, with numerous individuals using online platforms to criticize the increasing instability in the nation.
The ARISE News Channel has confirmed the passing of 29-year-old journalist, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu.
This unfortunate occurrence was triggered by a violent robbery at her home in the Katampe neighborhood of Abuja. The event took place during the early morning hours of Monday, September 29.
