Police in Abuja have launched a major investigation after suspected armed robbers broke into the Katampe home of Arise News anchor Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu and killed her in the early hours of Monday.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025.
According to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command, armed men broke into the journalist’s residence, robbed her, and killed her before escaping.
Confirming the development, FCT Commissioner of Police Benneth Igweh said a combined team of tactical units, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, intelligence officers and forensic experts had been deployed to investigate the case and track down those responsible.
“The Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the incident. Tactical teams are already on the ground combing the area, reviewing CCTV footage, and following all leads. We are determined to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the police stated in a report by Vanguard.
Officers from Katampe Police Division were the first responders after the alarm was raised by neighbors during the attack.
Despite emergency efforts, Maduagwu was confirmed dead at the scene.
Aged 29, Maduagwu was a lawyer by training and had quickly risen to prominence in journalism through her work as a presenter with Arise News.
Colleagues described her as professional, intelligent, and deeply passionate about telling stories that mattered.
In a statement, Arise News expressed profound sadness at her death, describing her as a vibrant broadcaster whose loss is a devastating blow to the newsroom and to journalism in Nigeria.
“Sommie’s voice is now silent but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory,” part of the statement read.
The killing has triggered widespread shock and anger.
Tributes have poured in on social media from viewers, colleagues, and members of the public, many of whom are demanding urgent steps to address rising insecurity in Abuja and across the country.
The FCT Police Command has appealed to residents with useful information to come forward, pledging that the crime will not go unpunished.
Maduagwu’s killing marks yet another violent robbery in the capital, leaving the media industry and the nation in mourning.