The family of slain ARISE News anchor and reporter, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to urgently track down and prosecute her killers.
Their plea came on Tuesday when senior management of the ARISE Media Group paid a condolence visit to the Maduagwu residence in Port Harcourt, Rivers State
Somtochukwu, fondly called Sommie, was murdered during an armed robbery at her Abuja home in Katampe in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025. The 29-year-old lawyer-turned-journalist’s rising career was tragically cut short, sparking grief and outrage across Nigeria’s media and civic spaces.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Engr. Obi Maduagwu, elder brother to Sommie’s father, described the killing as “senseless, cruel, and deeply painful.”
“We appreciate ARISE News for standing with us, but we demand justice. Those who did this must be found and made to face the law,” he said.
The ARISE delegation, led by Mr. Bayo Awosemo, Deputy Managing Director, included Mr. Sumner Sambo, Director of News, and Mr. Chris Isiguzo, Director of Corporate Services and former NUJ President. They praised Sommie’s dedication, values, and professionalism.
Isiguzo, also President of the Congress of African Journalists, shared a moving recollection:
“We were together in the office on Saturday and Sunday. She was full of life. Who would have imagined that hours later, we’d be talking about her in the past tense? Her voice may be silent, but her legacy will endure.”
Sommie’s mother was inconsolable, while her father, Engr. Ifeanyi Maduagwu, was too distraught to speak as mourners, neighbours, and colleagues filled their Port Harcourt home. Many described her as brilliant, humble, and principled — “a rare gem.”
Born on December 26, 1995, Sommie studied law in Nigeria and the UK before venturing into journalism, where she excelled as a reporter, producer, and anchor. She was especially noted for her insightful coverage of legal issues, gender equity, and social justice.
Director of News, Sumner Sambo, assured the bereaved family that ARISE will push for justice:
“No stone will be left unturned in unmasking those behind this heinous crime.”
Her death has reignited calls for stronger protection for journalists and urgent reforms in Nigeria’s security architecture.