Somtochukwu Maduagwu: Wike Blows Hot, Vows Justice for Killed Arise TV Journalist

Somtochukwu Maduagwu: Wike Blows Hot, Vows Justice for Killed Arise TV Journalist

  • FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has condemned the death of Arise TV journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu, calling it tragic and painful
  • He directed security agencies to thoroughly investigate the case and bring those responsible to justice without delay
  • Wike extended condolences to Arise News, Chairman Nduka Obaigbena, and the family of the deceased, praying for strength in their grief

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has condemned the killing of Arise News anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu, describing her death as both tragic and unacceptable.

Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie, reportedly died on Monday after attempting to flee from armed robbers who stormed her residence in Katampe, Abuja.

Late Arise News anchor Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu, tragically died in Abuja while escaping suspected robbers.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, reacts to the death of Arise TV journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu. Photo: FB/NyesomeWike
Source: Facebook

Wike orders probe into Arise journalist’s death

She was said to have jumped from the balcony of her home in a desperate bid to escape the attackers.

In a statement released on Tuesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike expressed grief over the incident.

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He said the journalist’s death was not only a loss to her family and workplace but also to the entire Nigerian media space.

“I feel pained that such a wonderful soul could be cut down in its prime. It is sad,” the minister stated while offering prayers for the repose of her soul.

Wike assured that law enforcement agencies have been directed to probe the matter thoroughly and ensure that justice is served.

Arise News Chairman Nduka Obaigbena receives condolence message from Wike over the death of the station’s journalist.
Maitama General Hospital was where the late journalist was brought in early Monday after the incident. Photo: IG/SomtochukwuMad
Source: Twitter

He pledged that the Federal Capital Territory Administration would give every support required to guarantee that those behind the crime are held accountable.

According to the statement, the Mandate Secretary on Health in the FCT, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, confirmed that Maduagwu was brought to the Maitama General Hospital at about 4:30 a.m. on Monday.

She noted that the preliminary medical findings would be made available to assist police investigators already on the case.

The minister extended his condolences to the Chairman of Arise News, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, as well as to the staff and management of the station. He also condoled with the family and friends of the late journalist, praying for strength and comfort in their time of grief.

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“It is my prayer that God in His infinite mercies will accept her soul and give her family members, friends and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Wike said.

The incident has sparked outrage across the country with renewed concerns over insecurity in the nation’s capital.

The deceased was a fine media professional with prior stints in the beauty industry. Here are some other facts about her.

Somtochukwu Maduagwu: Police begin investigation

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the Federal Capital Territory Police Command has begun a discreet investigation into the killing of Arise Television journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who lost her life during an armed robbery at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, on Monday, September 29, 2025.

Police Commissioner Ajao Adewale condemned the incident, describing it as a cruel and senseless act that should never occur in any civilised society. He assured the public that the command will pursue the case with utmost seriousness until justice is achieved.

Read also

Somtochukwu Maduagwu: How Arise News TV anchor died: “Hospital asking for identification”

Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh confirmed in a statement that CP Adewale has directed a comprehensive inquiry into the crime.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Ibrahim Sofiyullaha avatar

Ibrahim Sofiyullaha (Editorial Assistant) Ibrahim Sofiyullaha is a graduate of First Technical University, Ibadan. He was the founder and pioneer Editor-in-Chief of a fast-rising campus journalism outfit at his university. Ibrahim is a coauthor of the book Julie, or Sylvia, written in collaboration with two prominent Western authors. He was ranked as the 9th best young writer in Africa by the International Sports Press Association. Ibrahim has contributed insightful articles for major platforms, including Sportskeeda in the UK and Motherly in the United States. Email: ibrahim.sofiyullaha@corp.legit.ng