Police have released comprehensive details surrounding the tragic and untimely death of Arise TV news anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, widely known as Sommie, who lost her life during an armed robbery incident at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, Nigeria.
The harrowing incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, 29 September 2025, sending shockwaves through her family, colleagues at ARISE News, friends, and the general public. The sudden and violent nature of the attack has left many grieving and demanding answers about safety and security in the city.
Robbery Sparks Panic and Chaos
According to the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, armed robbers forcefully entered “Unique Apartments,” a three-storey residential complex consisting of 18 flats where the journalist lived. At the time of the attack, two private security guards were on duty to ensure the safety of residents.
One of the guards courageously attempted to confront the attackers but was shot, immediately triggering panic and chaos throughout the compound. Residents scrambled for safety as the situation quickly escalated into a life-threatening ordeal.
Somtochukwu, who lived on the top floor of the building, reportedly attempted to flee from the immediate danger. In a desperate bid to escape, she jumped from the third floor, a fall that proved to be fatal despite her immediate transfer to medical care.
Commissioner of Police for the FCT Command, Ajao Adewale, provided a statement on the circumstances of her death, explaining: “Out of panic, she jumped from the third floor. Sadly, the consequences of that fall are what we are dealing with today.”
Emergency responders immediately rushed Somtochukwu to Maitama General Hospital, where medical personnel attempted to save her life. Adewale elaborated: “Doctors on duty did their best, including administering CPR and other emergency measures, but unfortunately, she could not make it.”
Investigation Launched and Public Reaction
The FCT Police Command has swiftly established a dedicated investigative team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, with orders to deploy all available tactical resources to apprehend those responsible. Adewale emphasized: “No stone will be left unturned to ensure those responsible for this dastardly act are brought to justice.”
ARISE News described Somtochukwu as “a cherished member of the ARISE News family and a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with viewers,” highlighting her professionalism, dedication, and impact on the Nigerian media landscape.
Her death has not only provoked widespread grief but also intensified public concern over the rising insecurity in the nation’s capital. Social media platforms have been flooded with tributes from colleagues, friends, and Nigerians who continue to express outrage and demand stronger security measures for citizens.
The incident also raises critical questions about the effectiveness of private security in residential complexes and the need for urgent measures to safeguard journalists, especially those living alone or on upper floors of multi-storey buildings.
In addition to condolences from the public, colleagues at ARISE News have recounted her dedication to journalism, her commitment to informing the public, and her warm personality that made her a beloved figure both on and off the camera. Her untimely passing represents a significant loss to the media community and to Nigerians who valued her voice and reporting.
Authorities continue to investigate the events surrounding the robbery and the identities of the assailants. The police have called on residents in the area to provide any information that could assist in apprehending the culprits and preventing similar tragedies in the future.
See related coverage below;
Sommie Jumped from the Top Floor of Her Apartment During An Armed Robbery Attack – Adewale
On Monday, armed robbers stormed Unique Apartment in Katampe, a three-story building with 18 flats, where Somtochukwu Maduagwu resides. The building's private security personnel, one of… pic.twitter.com/eXg9TPSJrh
— ARISE NEWS (@ARISEtv) October 1, 2025