ABUJA, Nigeria — Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a news anchor and producer with Arise Television, died in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, after an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.
She was 29.
Maduagwu, popularly known as Sommie, lost her life alongside a private security guard during the incident.
Ajao Adewale, commissioner of police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), confirmed that Maduagwu jumped from the third floor of her apartment in fear after armed robbers stormed the building.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show, Adewale explained that the chaos began when one of the security guards on duty attempted to resist the attackers.
“Two private security guards were on duty and one of them, who had the courage to challenge them, sustained a gunshot injury,” Adewale said.
“Under this condition, you know the panic that would have resulted from this kind of environment. Sommie actually occupied an apartment on the topmost floor of the building, out of fear, she jumped down from the third floor.”
The police commissioner said officers responding to a distress call found Maduagwu unconscious on the ground.
She was rushed to Maitama General Hospital, but doctors were unable to revive her despite performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Adewale stressed that the attack was a clear case of armed robbery, noting that cash and mobile phones were taken from several residents.
“They came in… Sommie was not the only resident in that apartment. We are talking about 18 flats with 16 fully occupied. Handsets and cash from wallets were picked. The wallets were thrown on the floor,” he said.
“It is obvious that it is a clear case of robbery. Sommie was not shot. Out of fear and panic, she jumped down.”
