The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has expressed deep grief over the killing of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a news anchor with ARISE News Channel, who died on Monday, September 29, 2025, following an armed robbery attack at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja.
In a statement signed by its Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, the Council described Somtochukwu’s death as “a devastating loss not only to her immediate family and Arise News but to the entire Nigerian media industry.”
The NUJ praised Maduagwu’s contributions to journalism, saying, “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 Council extended condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues at ARISE News, while stressing that the circumstances about her demise were a painful reminder of the worsening security challenges facing the country.
Calling for justice, the NUJ urged the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and other security agencies to launch a “thorough forensic investigation” into the incident and ensure that those responsible were arrested and prosecuted.
The statement added, “Though her life was brief, her impact was profound. May her legacy continue to inspire courage and truth in journalism.”
The Council further urged journalists across Nigeria to remain united, vigilant, and supportive of one another during what it described as a period of “collective mourning.”
