ABUJA, Nigeria — Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor and producer with Arise Television, was killed early Monday in an armed robbery at her residence in the Katampe district of Abuja. She was 29.
Arise TV confirmed her death in a statement signed by spokesperson Hadiza Usman-Ajayi, saying the Nigeria Police Force had opened an investigation into the incident.
“Sommie tragically passed away in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, following an armed robbery incident in her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja that is being investigated by the Nigeria Police,” the statement read.
“Sommie, 29, was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers.”
The broadcaster described her as “a professional and supportive colleague and a friend to many,” and called for “a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits.”
Born on December 26, 1995, Maduagwu — popularly known as Sommie — was a trained lawyer and television presenter with interests in politics and pageantry.
She attended Montessori International Primary School in Port Harcourt and Presentation National High School before studying law at the University of Surrey, Guildford, in the United Kingdom.
She later attended the Nigerian Law School, Bwari campus, in Abuja.
In 2023, she won the Miss World Tourism Nigeria crown.
That same year, she enrolled at the School of Politics Policy and Governance, founded by former education minister Oby Ezekwesili, reflecting her growing interest in public service.
In a 2023 interview, Maduagwu said she hoped to represent Anambra Central senatorial district in the future but had learned to embrace every opportunity to make an impact.
“Knowing what I know now about Nigerian politics and its unpredictability, I have accepted that any opportunity to impact my country will be great, even if it is not the opportunity I desire most,” she said.
In August, Maduagwu posted on X that she prayed Nigeria would never “happen” to her or her loved ones — echoing a popular phrase describing the country’s economic and social hardships.
Her death has reignited online conversations about insecurity and the risks facing Nigerians in their daily lives.
Friends and colleagues have since flooded social media with tributes, describing her as a patriot who believed deeply in the possibility of a better Nigeria.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and civil society groups have called for urgent reforms to address insecurity in the capital.
Meanwhile, Arise TV said its newsroom remained in shock.
“Sommie’s voice is now silent, but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory,” the management said.
Police have yet to release further details about the robbery or possible suspects.
I pray from the depth of my heart that Nigeria never happens to me or anyone I care about.
— Sommie Maduagwu (@Sommie_xo) August 14, 2025
