A violent robbery at a residential complex in Abuja has claimed the life of 29-year-old Arise TV news anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu, leaving Nigeria’s media community in shock. According to FCT Commissioner of Police Ajao Adewale, the attack occurred early Monday, September 29, at Unique Apartments in Katampe. During the chaos, Maduagwu reportedly fell from the third floor of her building while trying to escape.
Vigilantes found her unconscious and rushed her to Maitama General Hospital, where doctors performed CPR, but she did not survive. Police said the assailants entered the compound in the early hours, shooting one of the two security guards on duty. Commissioner Adewale called the event “tragic and very unfortunate,” confirming that a special investigation team has been deployed to find the perpetrators.
Maduagwu’s devastated father described receiving an urgent, cryptic call from relatives before learning the full extent of the tragedy. Despite frantic efforts to reach her, it was too late. He remembered his daughter as a passionate journalist and committed young woman whose dreams were cut short. Tributes have since poured in from colleagues, public figures, and institutions.
Arise News mourned her as “a beloved team member, skilled journalist, producer, and lawyer whose spirit and legacy will live on.” Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu also expressed sorrow, calling her “a promising professional” and urging authorities to bring the attackers to justice. Maduagwu’s final Instagram post was on September 7. Her voice is gone, but her impact on Nigerian journalism remains.
