By DAYO ADESULU
ARISE News confirmed that Somtochukwu Christelle “Sommie” Maduagwu, their news anchor, died in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, following an armed robbery at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.
- She was 29 years old.
- The robbery occurred at her home; authorities are investigating the incident.
- Police have officially launched a probe into her death, and security agencies have been called upon to ensure the culprits are apprehended and prosecuted.
- ARISE’s management, in a statement signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi, described Sommie as “a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers,” and extended condolences to her parents, siblings, extended family, and friends.
- Vanguard notes that efforts to get updates from the FCT Police Command have been unsuccessful so far; the command has not responded to messages seeking details about the investigation.
Because of the recency, many details are still emerging. The risk of conflicting or speculative reports is high. But the core facts are consistent across multiple outlets.
Tribute on Behalf of The Cheer News
We mourn the passing of Somtochukwu “Sommie” Christelle Maduagwu — a bright star extinguished too soon
With heavy hearts, The Cheer News joins the Nigerian media community, family, friends, and colleagues at ARISE News to mourn the tragic loss of Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu. In her 29 years of life, she shone with eloquence, conviction, and a commitment to truth that inspired many.
Sommie was more than a news anchor, reporter, and producer — she was a lawyer by training, whose intellect and legal grounding added depth and clarity to every story she touched. Her polished delivery and sharp insight made her a trusted voice in homes across Nigeria. She bridged law and journalism in ways few can, and in doing so enriched the newsroom and elevated public discourse.
Colleagues who worked alongside her speak of her warmth — a professional, always ready to support others, and a friend whose energy lifted spirits in the newsroom. To viewers, she was a dependable presence, a face you recognized and a voice you trusted to deliver important truths.
It is deeply painful that someone so young, talented, and full of promise has been lost in such a senseless act of violence. Her death is not just a loss to her loved ones but to our profession — a reminder of the risks journalists sometimes face, even within their own homes.
To her parents, siblings, extended family, and all who held her dear: we extend our heartfelt condolences. May you find strength in the love she left behind, and solace in the knowledge that her legacy will outlive this moment of darkness.
To the authorities investigating this tragedy: let this death not be in vain. We urge a swift, transparent, and thorough investigation. The culprits must be held to account. Justice for Sommie is not simply a demand — it is a necessity for the safety, dignity, and respect of all those who serve the public with courage.
Sommie’s voice may now be silent—her presence taken too soon—but her spirit, passion, and the stories she championed will endure. In every newsroom light left on late, in every anchor voice striving for clarity, in every reporter seeking to uncover truth — her memory lives on.
Rest in peace, Sommy. You left your mark on Nigeria’s airwaves and in the hearts of many. We will carry forward your zeal, your integrity, and your love for journalism.
