The Federal Government, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) have expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of Ms. Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a 29-year-old reporter and news anchor with Arise News, calling for a comprehensive forensic investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding her demise.
Maduagwu, who was assigned to cover the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, was described as a vibrant, talented, and dedicated journalist whose promising career was cut short in a cruel and unacceptable manner.
In a statement signed by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jonathan Eze, the Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, described the journalist’s death as “a painful and devastating loss, not only to her family and colleagues but also to the entire media industry and everyone whose lives she touched.”
She commended the late broadcaster’s professionalism and commitment to duty, noting that her vibrant personality distinguished her as one of the most promising young voices in Nigerian journalism.
The Minister strongly condemned the reported circumstances of her death, describing them as “totally unacceptable.” She urged security agencies to leave no stone unturned in fishing out the perpetrators and ensuring they face the full weight of the law.
“Such a bright candle has been blown out in her prime. Nigeria has lost a young woman of talent, courage, and promise. On behalf of the Ministry of Women Affairs, I extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, and the entire Arise News family. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement read.
Similarly, the FCT Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) mourned Maduagwu’s death, describing it as a devastating blow to the profession.
In a condolence message signed by the Council’s Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, on behalf of the Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, the NUJ praised her brilliance, passion, and professionalism, adding that her poise and commitment to truth made her a shining example of the new generation of Nigerian journalists.
“Somtochukwu was a brilliant, passionate, and dedicated broadcaster whose professionalism and poise endeared her to colleagues and viewers alike. She represented the best of a new generation of Nigerian journalists—bold, ethical, and committed to the truth,” the NUJ said.
The Council extended heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and the management and staff of Arise Television, while urging the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and bring the culprits to justice.
Also mourning her passing, the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, described Maduagwu as a hardworking and talented journalist who contributed immensely to the media industry.
In a statement, its Chairperson, Bassey Ita-Ikpang, said:
“On behalf of the FCT chapter of NAWOJ, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu. She was a dedicated, hardworking, and talented journalist whose professionalism and passion made her a role model for many young journalists. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and colleagues at Arise News during this very difficult time.”
NAWOJ further urged security agencies to intensify efforts at unravelling the incident while tightening security across the Federal Capital Territory and the country to protect journalists and citizens from violent crimes.
The association stressed that her death was not only a loss to Arise News but also to the Nigerian media community and the public who benefited from her work, while reaffirming its commitment to the welfare and safety of women journalists.