“We Don’t Have Fuel”: How Police Negligence Led to the Death of ARISE TV Anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu, Family Friend Says
Tragic new details have emerged surrounding the death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, the 29-year-old ARISE News anchor, reporter, and producer, who died during an armed robbery at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, on September 29, 2025.
While early reports suggested that Maduagwu, also known as Sommie, was attacked directly by the robbers, family friend Kaanayo Nwachukwu, who knew her mother, provided a different account. According to Nwachukwu, armed robbers invaded the six-flat apartment complex where she lived, moving from one apartment to another and robbing residents. Although the police were alerted, they reportedly failed to respond in time.
Terrified by the commotion, Maduagwu attempted to escape before the robbers reached her apartment, jumping out of a window and sustaining severe injuries. When police eventually arrived minutes later, she was still alive. Eyewitnesses said she pleaded for immediate medical attention, but officers reportedly told her there was no fuel in their vehicle to take her to the hospital. She managed to call her mother’s close friend, who lived nearby, but by the time help arrived, Maduagwu had passed away.
Nwachukwu described the incident as a systemic failure, saying, “Sommie lived in a block of six flats in the FCT suburb of Katampe. Initial reports said she was attacked and killed during an armed robbery. That wasn’t the case. The police delay and lack of response contributed to her death. That’s how Nigeria happened to this promising young star.”
Born on December 26, 1995, Maduagwu studied law in the UK before returning to Nigeria to attend law school. She joined ARISE TV in 2024 and quickly became a respected journalist. Her death has sparked widespread grief among colleagues, family, and Nigerians, highlighting ongoing concerns over insecurity and systemic negligence.
ARISE News issued a statement describing Maduagwu as a vibrant journalist and lawyer, praising her professionalism and dedication. The station extended condolences to her family and called on the Nigeria Police to investigate the incident and ensure the perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and prosecuted.
“She was a cherished member of the ARISE News family, and her voice and passion will endure as part of our collective memory,” the statement read.
Maduagwu died in the early hours of Monday, September 29, 2025, at the age of 29. (Solakuti.com)
